GdS Milan Begin Preparations for Sassuolo as Internationals Set to Return

FolioPitch.com – 06 October 2026 | AC Milan have officially begun their on-field preparations for the upcoming Serie A clash against Sassuolo, with La Gazzetta dello Sport reporting that GdS Milan begin preparations for Sassuolo when the internationals will return. Following a 1-1 draw in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Padova on Friday at Milanello, the non-international players were granted the weekend off. That brief respite is now over, and the focus has shifted entirely to the resumption of competitive action.

The Rossoneri are gearing up for a crucial period that includes an away trip to Sassuolo, a European encounter with RB Salzburg, and a congested fixture list. As GdS Milan begin preparations for Sassuolo when the internationals will return, the coaching staff faces the challenge of reintegrating a host of global stars while maintaining tactical cohesion. The coming days will be pivotal in setting the tone for a demanding stretch of the season.

A Quiet Milanello Before the Storm

In recent days, the Milanello training ground has been a subdued environment, with only a select group of players present. The goalkeeping department featured Terracciano and Torriani, while the defensive unit comprised Gila, Gabbia, Filippo Terracciano, Tomori, and Diawara. In midfield, Comotto and Loftus-Cheek trained, and the attacking third was represented by Pulisic and Hutchinson. This skeleton crew has been working under the watchful eye of the technical staff, focusing on individual fitness and tactical drills.

However, the tranquility is about to be shattered. The squad is expected to return to full strength between tomorrow and Wednesday, as international duty concludes across the globe. The first to return will be Pavlovic and Gonçalo Ramos, who both played for their national teams yesterday. Their early arrival will provide a timely boost to the group as they look to integrate back into the Milan fold.

International Returns on the Horizon

The French contingent of Maignan and Rabiot, along with the Belgians Moreira and De Winter, are in action today and are expected back tomorrow. Similarly, the Italy U21 trio of Bartesaghi, Camarda, and Cisse will also report back tomorrow. Modric and Jashari have their final international matches scheduled for tomorrow evening, meaning they will arrive at Milanello on Wednesday. The last to return will be Chukwueze, Estupinan, and Musah, who are travelling from intercontinental fixtures and are also expected to join training on Wednesday.

This staggered return presents a logistical puzzle for the Milan coaching staff. As GdS Milan begin preparations for Sassuolo when the internationals will return, the focus will be on recovery and quick tactical reintegration. The players returning from long-haul flights will need careful management to avoid fatigue and injury, especially with the Salzburg trip on the horizon.

Tactical Focus for Sassuolo

The primary objective this week is to fine-tune the team for the Sassuolo challenge. The Neroverdi are known for their organized defense and dangerous counter-attacks, so Milan will need to be sharp in both phases of play. The coaching staff is expected to drill the squad on pressing triggers and quick transitions, ensuring that the returning internationals are up to speed with the game plan.

With a packed schedule ahead, rotation will be key. The fitness levels of the returning players will dictate the starting lineup, but the depth of the squad will be tested. The likes of Pulisic and Loftus-Cheek, who have been training throughout the break, will be eager to make an impact. Meanwhile, the returning stars must quickly shake off any international disappointment or fatigue to contribute immediately.

Conclusion

The stage is set for a crucial week at Milanello. As the internationals trickle back, the full squad will assemble, and the real work will begin. GdS Milan begin preparations for Sassuolo when the internationals will return, and the coming days will reveal whether the Rossoneri can maintain their momentum. With Sassuolo and Salzburg on the horizon, Milan must hit the ground running to keep their season on track.