AC Milan vs Cagliari - Serie A

All eyes turn to the home ground on May 24, 2026 as AC Milan welcome Cagliari in a Serie A encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. The sheer joy on the 18-year-old defender’s face resonated with Paul Schaffran back at the academy.

Both AC Milan and Cagliari will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Serie A. The hosts have been steady if unspectacular, DDLLW in their last five reflecting a win rate of 50%. Cagliari have made a habit of winning on the road, their W run backing up a remarkable season win rate of 75%. The contrast in attacking output — 1.75 versus 1 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Arsenal also saw the importance of having good depth at right-back when Mosquera was forced to start the Champions League final with PSG out of position - which then resulted in the young Spaniard conceding a penalty.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both AC Milan and Cagliari have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. But the Greek winger believes the mentality Arsenal are showing in pre-season is a sign they are ready to defend their crown.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. The club will have to look elsewhere for a new midfielder.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 2-2 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Serie A standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign through injury - but it is not likely to impact the Reds' transfer plans.