AC Milan is set to conclude their pre-season preparations in the United States, with key players Ismael Bennacer and Amine Adli included in the squad. Notably absent from the roster is Senegalese defender Fode Ballo-Toure, who has been left out of the team’s plans for the upcoming season.
The Rossoneri have embarked on a challenging US tour where they will face three of Europe’s elite clubs.
The fixtures include a clash with Manchester City on Saturday night, a match against Real Madrid next Thursday, and a final showdown with Barcelona on August 6.
Algerian international midfielder Bennacer will be a key presence in these games, as will Moroccan midfielder Adli.
This tour is seen as a crucial opportunity for the team to fine-tune their strategies and integrate new signings into the squad.
As announced by club legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic earlier this summer, Ballo-Toure is not in Milan’s plans moving forward.
His exclusion from the US tour squad confirms the club’s intention to proceed without him for the upcoming season.
Full Roster for the US Tour
Goalkeepers:
– Nava
– Raveyre
– Sportiello
– Torrian
Defenders:
– Bakoune
– Calabria
– Gabbia
– Florenzi
– Jimenez
– Kalulu
– Terracciano
– Tomori
– Thiaw
Midfielders:
– Adli
– Bennacer
– Loftus-Cheek
– Musah
– Pobega
– Pulisic
– Saelemaekers
Forwards:
– Chukwueze
– Colombo
– Cuenca
– Jovic
– Leão
– Liberali
– Maldini
– Nasti
– Okafor
Key Players to Watch
Ismael Bennacer: The Algerian midfielder is expected to play a pivotal role in Milan’s midfield.
His vision, passing accuracy, and ability to control the tempo of the game will be crucial in matches against top-tier opponents like Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.
Amine Adli: The Moroccan midfielder will also be under the spotlight. Adli’s versatility and skill set make him a valuable asset for the team.
His performance during the tour will be closely monitored as he aims to solidify his place in the starting lineup.
The Importance of the US Tour
The US tour presents an essential phase for Milan to build chemistry among the players, especially with new signings and returning stars.
Matches against Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Barcelona will provide a stern test of the squad’s capabilities and readiness for the upcoming season.
These high-profile friendlies will help the coaching staff assess the team’s strengths and areas that require improvement.
Exclusion of Fode Ballo-Toure
Ballo-Toure’s exclusion from the squad signifies Milan’s intention to move forward without the Senegalese defender.
His absence opens up opportunities for other defenders to step up and make a case for their inclusion in the regular starting eleven.
The decision aligns with the strategic direction hinted at by Zlatan Ibrahimovic, emphasizing the club’s focus on a revamped squad for the new season.
The Squad for the USA ✈️🇺🇸#MilanOnTour #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/YerzlePdt9
— AC Milan (@acmilan) July 25, 2024
