When Massimiliano Allegri, head coach of AC Milan, stood in front of the Milanello press room on Thursday, October 23, 2025, he didn’t talk about trophies. He set a clear‑cut target: 74 points to secure Champions League qualification, and nothing about chasing the Scudetto.
Why the shift matters
It’s easy to forget that just over two years ago Milan were stuck in a midfield limbo, 743 days without ever topping the table. The club finally cracked the top spot after a 2‑1 win over Fiorentina on October 20, sitting on 16 points after seven matches. That’s five wins, a draw and a solitary loss – a record that looks solid on paper but still feels fragile when you consider the competition.
Allegri’s pivot toward a realistic European goal reflects a broader trend in Italian football: clubs are no longer willing to gamble all‑in on the league title when a Champions League spot guarantees financial stability and a chance to attract elite talent.
Season snapshot so far
- Points: 16 (74‑point target set)
- Record: 5‑1‑1
- Clean sheets: 4 (tied for league best with AS Roma)
- Total shots faced: 62 (fewest in Serie A)
- Goals conceded: 12 (Allegri wants to finish the season with 20‑25)
Those numbers tell a story of defensive resilience. In the recent 0‑0 draw at Juventus, Milan held a side that had been averaging 1.8 goals per game. That defensive record is a cornerstone of what Allegri calls “ALLEGRIsmo” – a blend of pragmatism and balance that prioritises “what is needed, not what is enough.”
Allegri’s pragmatic manifesto
During the press conference, broadcast on the AC Milan Official App and Milan TV, Allegri was blunt: “We need a minimum of 74 points. We’re not thinking about Napoli or Inter; we’re thinking about tomorrow. Keep your feet on the ground.” He repeated the sentiment, emphasizing that the squad must stay humble despite their early lead.
He also laid out a secondary defensive benchmark: “Concede between 20 and 25 goals all season.” In practice, that means an average of under one goal per game – a lofty aim, but one that aligns with the club’s recent shot‑suppression stats.
For fans accustomed to the attacking flair of the past, the change may feel conservative. Yet Allegri reminded everyone that “there are no easy games.” His next test, he warned, would be against newly‑promoted Pisa Sporting Club – a side that could expose any lingering naiveté.
The Pisa test
Facing Pisa at San Siro on Friday, October 24, at 20:45 CEST, Milan would have the chance to extend their lead to four points. Pisa, coached by former Italy striker Alberto Gilardino, is not a pushover. Allegri described them as “a physical team that fights, creates chances, and scores goals.” Gilardino, who earned his coaching badge after a glittering playing career, is praised for his organizational discipline on the back line.
The matchup is more than a routine fixture; it’s a litmus test for Allegri’s defensive blueprint. Milan have faced the fewest shots in the league – 62 total, with four games where they allowed seven or fewer attempts. If they can keep Pisa to under two attempts on target, the 74‑point goal looks even more attainable.
Reactions from the league and fans
Napoli’s sporting director, Walter Mazzarri, shrugged off Milan’s comments, saying, “Every club has its own targets. We’re focused on our own 80‑point ceiling.” Meanwhile, Inter Milan’s captain, Samir Handanović, hinted at a fierce race, noting, “Milan’s early lead is nice, but the season is long. We’ll see who keeps their composure.”
Supporters of AC Milan took to social media with mixed feelings. Veteran fan Marco ‘Il Rossonero’ posted, “Glad we’re finally thinking realistic. Champions is nice, but the Champions League is essential. Keep the focus.” Younger followers, however, urged a return to ambition, tweeting, “Why not aim for the Scudetto? We’ve got the squad.”
Looking ahead: the roadmap to 74 points
Allegri outlined a tentative path: win the next three home games, collect at least six points from the next two away fixtures, and maintain a goal‑difference of +15 by the midway point. If Milan can keep their clean‑sheet rate close to 50 % and continue to limit shots, the 74‑point target translates to roughly 2.2 points per game – a rate achievable if the squad stays injury‑free and retains focus.
One lingering question is whether the defensive emphasis will stifle the attacking flair that fans crave. Allegri addressed this in a follow‑up interview on October 24, saying, “We will exploit the spaces we create by being solid at the back. It’s a cause‑and‑effect relationship.” The next few weeks will reveal whether this philosophy can deliver both stability and the occasional spectacular goal.
Key facts at a glance
- Coach: Massimiliano Allegri (second spell since June 1 2024)
- Club: AC Milan – currently 1st in Serie A (16 points)
- Target: 74 points for Champions League qualification
- Defensive goal: Concede 20‑25 goals all season
- Next fixture: vs. Pisa Sporting Club, Oct 24, 20:45 CEST, San Siro
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Allegri focusing on Champions League qualification instead of the Scudetto?
Allegri believes securing a Champions League spot guarantees financial stability and attracts top talent, which he sees as a realistic stepping stone before challenging for the league title. The 74‑point benchmark reflects a target that balances ambition with the current squad’s defensive strengths.
How does Milan’s defensive record compare to other Serie A teams?
Milan have kept four clean sheets in seven matches, tying with AS Roma for the most in the league. They’ve also faced only 62 shots total – the fewest among all 20 clubs – and limited opponents to seven or fewer attempts in four games, underscoring a disciplined, low‑risk approach.
What challenges does the upcoming game against Pisa present?
Pisa, led by former striker Alberto Gilardino, is a newly‑promoted side noted for its physicality and organized defense. A lapse could cost Milan points and momentum, especially as they aim to extend their lead to four points. Allegri warned that “there are no easy games,” emphasizing respect for the opponent.
What are the fan reactions to Allegri’s pragmatic plan?
Long‑time supporters appreciate the realistic focus on Champions League qualification, citing financial security. Younger fans, however, push for a more aggressive title chase, reflecting a split between prudence and ambition within the supporter base.
What does the 74‑point target translate to in terms of wins and draws?
To reach 74 points by season’s end, Milan need roughly 2.2 points per game. That equates to about 22 wins and 8 draws across 38 matches, assuming a few losses – a demanding but achievable goal if defensive consistency continues.