Milan vs Atalanta: Sarri’s Injury-Ravaged Side Arrive at San Siro – Form, Predicted XI and Key Battles

FolioPitch.com – 17 October 2026 | AC Milan return to San Siro on Sunday aiming to secure their first Serie A victory since the international break, and they will face an Atalanta side in the midst of a significant injury crisis. As part of our Opposition insight for Milan-Atalanta Form injuries predicted XI and more, we take a deep dive into the Nerazzurri’s current situation, from their mixed form to the absentees that could shape the outcome.

Milan’s draw with Sassuolo before the break was understandable given the number of players away on international duty, but the injury to Alexis Saelemaekers in training came as a major blow. However, a dominant midweek win over Salzburg has injected fresh optimism into Ruben Amorim’s squad, and they will be eager to build on that momentum against Atalanta. This Opposition insight for Milan-Atalanta Form injuries predicted XI and more reveals that the visitors are far from full strength, which could play into Milan’s hands.

Atalanta’s Turbulent Season So Far

Atalanta endured a chaotic 2025-26 campaign, finishing seventh and undergoing two managerial changes. Raffaele Palladino replaced Ivan Juric in November, only to be succeeded by Maurizio Sarri, who had been out of work since leaving Lazio. Sarri’s arrival has brought a new tactical identity, but results have been inconsistent. The Bergamo club sit 10th in Serie A with three wins and three defeats from six games. Their victories came against Sassuolo, Bologna and Venezia, while they fell to Roma, Cagliari and Juventus. On Thursday night, they opened their Conference League campaign with a 3-1 home win over Pafos, but the match came at a cost as Giacomo Raspadori joined the growing injury list.

Injury Crisis Deepens for Sarri

Sarri faces a selection headache across the park. Elmas, Kessie, Scalvini, Sulemana, Kossounou, Pompei, Hien and Raspadori are all unavailable, with Bellanova also a doubt. The defensive department, however, remains relatively intact. Marco Carnesecchi will start in goal, with a back four of Davide Zappacosta, Thomas Kristensen, Sead Kolasinac and young Bernasconi. In midfield, Gianluca Gaetano will partner Ederson, with Lazar Samardzic operating ahead of them. The attack will be led by Krstovic, supported by Jonathan Rowe and Charles De Ketelaere. This Opposition insight for Milan-Atalanta Form injuries predicted XI and more highlights that while Atalanta’s defence is stable, the absence of key midfield and attacking options could limit their threat.

Predicted Atalanta XI (4-2-3-1)

Carnesecchi; Zappacosta, Kristensen, Kolasinac, Bernasconi; Gaetano, Ederson; De Ketelaere, Samardzic, Rowe; Krstovic.

Key Players and Tactical Approach

Krstovic is Atalanta’s top scorer with four goals in all competitions, and he will be the focal point of their attack. De Ketelaere, a former Milan target, will be eager to impress against his old club. Samardzic, another player linked with Milan in the past, adds creativity in the hole. Sarri’s trademark 4-2-3-1 relies on quick transitions and overlapping full-backs, but with several key players missing, the bench may lack game-changers. Milan’s midfield will need to press aggressively to disrupt Atalanta’s rhythm and prevent service to Krstovic.

For Milan, the midweek win over Salzburg provided a blueprint: high intensity, quick passing and clinical finishing. Amorim will likely stick with the same formula, though he may rotate to keep legs fresh. The Rossoneri’s defence must stay alert to Atalanta’s counter-attacks, especially with De Ketelaere and Rowe drifting into pockets of space. This Opposition insight for Milan-Atalanta Form injuries predicted XI and more suggests that Milan’s superior squad depth could be the difference.

Conclusion

Atalanta arrive at San Siro with a depleted squad and inconsistent form, offering Milan a golden opportunity to claim three crucial points. Sarri’s side will not roll over, but the absence of several key players tilts the balance in Milan’s favour. As this Opposition insight for Milan-Atalanta Form injuries predicted XI and more has shown, the Nerazzurri’s defensive solidity may keep them in the game, but their attacking limitations could prove decisive. Milan must capitalise on their momentum and home advantage to secure a much-needed win.