– AC Milan lineup against Bologne
– Probable starting XI for AC Milan vs Bologne.

Milan AC and Bologna Battling for European Spots in Serie A

Milan AC’s Strong Position in Serie A and Champions League

Currently sitting in third place in Serie A, the Milan AC team is in a favorable position to qualify for the upcoming Champions League. However, they will need to step up their game to challenge for the Scudetto, as they are currently seven points behind the league leaders. With a six-match unbeaten run, including five wins and a draw, the Rossoneri have been performing well in recent weeks. However, they faced disappointment in 2024 with a home elimination in the quarter-finals of the Italian Cup against Atalanta (1-2). Ranked third in their Champions League group, Milan AC will face Rennes in the Europa League playoffs.

Bologna’s Push for European Places

Bologna has confirmed their status this year by entering the battle for European spots. Under the guidance of Thiago Motta, the team currently occupies the seventh place in Serie A, just two points behind the fourth-placed team, the last spot for the next Champions League. However, their momentum has slowed down in recent weeks. They have failed to win any of their last three league matches. After being held to a draw at home by Genoa (1-1), they suffered defeats against Udinese (3-0) and Cagliari last weekend (2-1).

Injury Concerns for Milan AC

This weekend, Milan AC will be without Tomori, Thiaw, Kalulu, Caldara, Pellegrino, and Pobega due to injuries. Additionally, Chukwueze is still engaged in the CAN tournament. Although eliminated with Algeria, Bennacer is uncertain to play this weekend. In attack, Pulisic, Leao, and Giroud are expected to be in the lineup. During the winter period, Gabbia returned from his loan spell at Villarreal, and promising young full-back Terracciano was recruited from Hellas Verona.

Bologna’s Injury and Suspension Concerns

Thiago Motta continues to deal with several absences, including Karlsson, Saelemaekers, Ndoye, and Soumaoro. El Azzouzi is engaged in the African Cup of Nations, while Posch is suspended. However, there is hope with the return from suspension of striker Zirkzee, who is expected to be supported by Orsolini, the scorer in the last match. During the winter period, Bonifazi left the club for Frosinone. On the other hand, Joaquin Sosa (formerly of Dinamo Zagreb) returned from his loan, and Ilic (formerly of Partizan) was recruited.