Massimiliano Allegri, head coach of AC Milan, expressed satisfaction with his team`s performance during their pre-season Asia tour, but warned that “everything will change” upon their return to Italy as the competitive season looms.
During their Asia-Pacific tour, AC Milan secured convincing victories over Liverpool and Perth Glory (a dominant 9-0 win in the final match), although they did suffer a defeat against Arsenal.
Allegri Calls for Focus and Balance Ahead of the Season
“We`ve had three productive weeks since we started preparations. The tour went well, marked by decent results in three friendly matches,” Allegri told Gazzetta.
“We trained well, and when we resume sessions on Tuesday, we`ll have to keep in mind that the season will start very soon. From that moment, everything will change,” he added.
AC Milan will make their 2025-26 Serie A debut on August 23 against Cremonese at San Siro. However, the first competitive match of the season is on August 17, when the team faces Bari in the Coppa Italia first round.
“We need to work calmly and with great balance, without getting carried away when things go well, because throughout the season, there will definitely be difficult moments,” Allegri noted.
“I`ve said it before, and I`ll repeat it: good players show their value in June, in December, and again the following June. Bad players, on the other hand, are bad in June, December, and six months later too. Mentally, we must be able to maintain balance and always remember that a season is like a 38-match cruise. We must maintain a steady pace throughout to achieve certain results,” the coach concluded.
Allegri Reflects on Dominant Perth Glory Victory
Many AC Milan fans supported the Rossoneri in their final match against Perth Glory, which Allegri`s side comfortably won 9-0.
“The match against Perth Glory was the last game of this tour, and usually the final match, after several days spent traveling the world, tends to be taken a bit lightly,” said the Italian tactician.
“But the team performed very well because they approached the game seriously, and it was a great evening for sport. We have many fans here in Australia, and we are happy about that,” he continued.
“We`ve been welcomed exceptionally well. The stadium was packed, and there was enthusiasm. We thank everyone for the warmth they showed here in Australia. The training facilities were excellent. Now, however, it`s time to put this month of work aside and think about the next two friendlies in Dublin and London, because the Coppa Italia will follow, and we can make no mistakes,” Allegri emphasized.
AC Milan will face Leeds United in Dublin on August 9 and Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on August 10.
Allegri returned to AC Milan in May, more than 11 years after being dismissed from the club. He signed a two-year contract at San Siro, with an option for an additional season.