"Our fate is still in our hands." Those words from Coach Allegri set the tone for a high-stakes showdown as AC Milan prepares to face Atalanta in matchday 36 of the Serie A season. With only three games left, this clash could be the turning point in the Rossoneri's fight for a Champions League spot. Adding a special touch to the occasion, Milan players will wear their mothers' names on the back of their shirts to celebrate Mother's Day, giving the squad an emotional boost. Kick-off is set for 20:45 CEST, and here's everything you need to know.
Latest from Milanello
It's been a tough stretch for Milan, with just four points from their last five matches and only one goal scored—Rabiot's strike against Verona. The team is eager to bounce back after a disappointing defeat to Sassuolo, and Allegri is likely to shake things up. In attack, everyone is fit and available, with Santiago Gimenez in line for a starting role. Changes could also come elsewhere on the pitch, though the squad faces some absences: Modrić is sidelined with an injury, and Tomori is suspended after a red card in Reggio Emilia. Several players are also walking a disciplinary tightrope, including Athekame, Estupiñan, Fofana, Leão, Saelemaekers, and Modrić.
"This is a decisive game because we only have three matches to go," Allegri said in his press conference. "At this point in the season, our mentality matters more than ever. We have to play with courage. I'm not worried. Things can change drastically in 90 minutes. If we get positive results in our last three games, we'll reach our objective, and we'll have done well."
Latest from Atalanta
Atalanta arrives in a difficult spell of their own, having picked up just two points from their last four games, effectively ending their Champions League hopes. Currently sitting in seventh place, they're focused on holding their position—four points clear of Lazio—which could secure a Conference League spot depending on the Coppa Italia outcome. After using two strikers in recent matches, they'll be looking to regain their attacking rhythm against a Milan side desperate to turn things around.