Pellegatti: Gila Could Be Used in the Centre If Tomori Finds Best Form

FolioPitch.com – 09 October 2026 | AC Milan‘s defensive setup could undergo a significant reshuffle in the coming weeks, with Carlo Pellegatti suggesting that Pellegatti Gila could be used in the centre if Tomori finds best form. The Italian journalist and avid Rossoneri supporter shared his insights on his YouTube channel, discussing the potential return of Fikayo Tomori to the starting lineup and its implications for the team’s backline.

Tomori’s situation at Milan has been tumultuous. After being initially dropped from the squad and placed on the transfer market, the English defender was reinstated in the final days of August when a move away failed to materialize. The club’s inability to secure a defensive reinforcement—highlighted by a failed €40 million bid for Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio—prompted manager Ruben Amorim to fully reintegrate Tomori. However, the former Chelsea man is yet to make a competitive appearance this season, as he continues to build up his fitness.

With a congested fixture list looming—seven games in 21 days—Tomori’s chances of returning to action are expected to arrive soon. Pellegatti emphasized the importance of understanding Tomori’s recovery status, noting that a return to his best form could influence Amorim’s tactical decisions. “In my opinion, another interesting topic, regarding the defence, is understanding Tomori’s recovery status,” Pellegatti said. “He certainly didn’t shine in terms of consistency last season, but he’s a player who wasn’t far from the national team, he’s even been called up. It would be important to understand Tomori’s recovery status, especially because a return to Tomori’s best form could lead Amorim to deploy Gila in the centre, alongside Gabbia or De Winter.”

This statement underscores the potential tactical flexibility that Tomori’s return could provide. If Tomori can regain the form that once made him an England international, Amorim might opt to shift Gila—likely referring to Matteo Gabbia or another defender—into a central role. The idea of Pellegatti Gila could be used in the centre if Tomori finds best form is not just speculative; it reflects a strategic adjustment that could solidify Milan’s defense. Gila, who has shown promise, might be better suited to a central position alongside a resurgent Tomori, allowing the team to benefit from Tomori’s pace and recovery abilities on the flank or in a more advanced defensive role.

Milan’s defensive frailties have been evident in recent seasons, and the lack of a marquee signing in the summer transfer window has left the squad relying on internal solutions. Tomori’s return could be a timely boost, but his consistency has been questioned. Last season, he struggled to maintain top form, which led to his omission from the squad. However, his potential remains high, and a string of good performances could not only restore his confidence but also reshape Milan’s defensive hierarchy.

The upcoming fixtures will be crucial for Tomori to prove his fitness and regain his place. If he does, the tactical implications could be significant. Pellegatti’s suggestion that Pellegatti Gila could be used in the centre if Tomori finds best form highlights the domino effect of Tomori’s resurgence. Gila, who has primarily played as a full-back or in a wider defensive role, might be more effective in the heart of defense, where his reading of the game and aerial ability could shine. Partnering with Gabbia or De Winter, Gila could form a solid central pairing, while Tomori’s speed could be utilized to cover ground and snuff out counter-attacks.

Amorim, known for his tactical acumen, will likely assess the situation carefully. The Portuguese manager has already shown faith in Tomori by reintegrating him, and now he must decide how to best utilize his defensive resources. The return of Tomori to peak form would give Amorim the luxury of choice, potentially allowing him to experiment with different combinations. The notion that Pellegatti Gila could be used in the centre if Tomori finds best form is a testament to the tactical versatility that Milan could possess if all players are available and in form.

From a broader perspective, Milan’s season hinges on defensive stability. The team has aspirations of competing for top honors, both domestically and in Europe, and a solid defense is paramount. Tomori’s return could be the catalyst for improvement, but it also raises questions about the best lineup. Gila’s potential move to the centre is just one possibility. Other options include deploying Tomori alongside Gabbia in a traditional center-back pairing, with Gila returning to a full-back position. However, Pellegatti’s insight suggests that Gila’s attributes might be better utilized in a central role, especially if Tomori can provide the necessary cover and aggression.

In conclusion, the coming weeks will be decisive for AC Milan’s defensive setup. Fikayo Tomori’s return to form could unlock new tactical possibilities, including the potential deployment of Gila in the centre. As Pellegatti pointed out, Pellegatti Gila could be used in the centre if Tomori finds best form, a scenario that could strengthen Milan’s backline and provide the foundation for a successful season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Amorim manages his defensive resources and whether Tomori can rediscover the form that once made him a key player for the Rossoneri.