AC Milan
AC Milan's defensive problems have deepened following the 4-2 defeat to Bologna, with Fikayo Tomori ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury in the first half. Rúben Amorim has received more encouraging news about Mario Gila, Adrien Rabiot and Diego Moreira, although their readiness to start remains uncertain. The Milan coach has also demanded greater composure after watching his team surrender a 2-1 lead and concede three second-half goals.
A reshuffle appears likely, with Luka Modrić and Christian Pulisic expected to return to the starting eleven after appearing as substitutes against Bologna. Gila could replace Tomori on the right side of defence, while Rabiot is a candidate to strengthen the midfield. Further forward, Gonçalo Ramos remains the focal point of Milan's attack. Amorim wants his side to operate higher up the pitch and provide the Portuguese striker with better service. Despite scoring twice in midweek, Alphadjo Cisse could make way as Milan seek a different attacking balance.
Inter Milan
Inter arrive at the Derby della Madonnina with 25 points from nine league matches, but Cristian Chivu believes his players must improve considerably on their performance against Venezia. Wednesday's 2-0 victory was secured through two late own goals, with Ivan Provedel producing important saves before the breakthrough. Chivu has emphasised the need for greater intensity and collective discipline, particularly when his side does not have possession. Lautaro Martínez remains unavailable, leaving Marcus Thuram to provide the main attacking threat.
Several established starters are expected to return after Chivu rotated his squad in midweek. Manuel Akanji should regain his place in the back three, while Nicolò Barella and Hakan Çalhanoğlu are likely to start in midfield. Henrikh Mkhitaryan faces competition from Piotr Zieliński and Petar Sučić for the remaining central position. Francesco Pio Esposito is favoured to partner Thuram, although Ange-Yoan Bonny remains an option. The goalkeeper selection is less straightforward: Josep Martínez could return despite Provedel's impressive displays in the previous two league fixtures.
