Milan’s Preseason Tactical Shift: Gila Anchors Defense, Chukwueze as Wing-Back, Kostic Scores

FolioPitch.com – 14 July 2026 | AC Milan kicked off their preseason campaign with a practice match that offered early tactical insights, highlighting the CM Gila s role Chukwueze at wing-back and Kostic scores signs from Milan s training match. Under new coach Ruben Amorim, the team adopted a 3-4-2-1 formation, signaling a strategic evolution for the Rossoneri.

The session, held Monday evening at Milanello, saw Amorim orchestrate an 11v11 scrimmage after warm-ups and conditioning work. With several players still on holiday due to World Cup commitments, the coach mixed youth and experience to test his preferred system. The two teams were both lined up in the 3-4-2-1, providing clear indications of the tactical direction Amorim intends to implement.

Team one (gold bibs) featured a defensive trio of Odogu, Gila, and Pavlovic, with Gila taking the central anchor role. This is a significant nod to the CM Gila s role Chukwueze at wing-back and Kostic scores signs from Milan s training match, as the Spanish defender, a new signing, was entrusted with orchestrating the backline. Alongside him, Pavlovic and Odogu provided width in defense.

The midfield quartet included Chukwueze, Comotto, Fofana, and Bartesaghi. Notably, Samuel Chukwueze, returning from a loan at Fulham, was deployed as a right wing-back rather than in his usual attacking midfield role. This change, rumored in recent days, adapts to the system while waiting for Alexis Saelemaekers’ return. Yunus Musah, back from Atalanta, played centrally in the white team’s midfield, highlighting his versatility.

Up front, the attacking line featured Ossola, Nkunku, and Kostic. The first goal of the preseason was scored by Andrej Kostic, the new arrival from Partizan Belgrade, who slotted home from a well-worked move. This moment crystallized the CM Gila s role Chukwueze at wing-back and Kostic scores signs from Milan s training match, as Amorim’s system quickly bore fruit.

Team two (white bibs) included Tomori, Gabbia, and Terracciano in defense, with Athekame, Ricci, Musah, and Karaca in midfield. Loftus-Cheek and Guernier operated behind striker Camarda. The presence of Tomori and Gabbia suggests continuity from Massimiliano Allegri’s tenure, but Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 demands specific adaptations.

The tactical implications are clear. Gila’s central role in the three-man defense indicates he is being groomed as a leader at the back, while Chukwueze’s shift to wing-back could maximize his pace and crossing ability from deeper positions. Kostic’s goal demonstrates the attacking potential of the system, with wing-backs pushing high. These elements collectively underline the CM Gila s role Chukwueze at wing-back and Kostic scores signs from Milan s training match, offering a glimpse into Amorim’s vision.

As preseason progresses, further matches will refine these roles. For now, the early signs are positive, with players adapting quickly to the new demands. The integration of new signings and tactical tweaks will be crucial as Milan prepares for the upcoming season. The CM Gila s role Chukwueze at wing-back and Kostic scores signs from Milan s training match may well be a preview of the dynamic, attacking football Amorim aims to establish.