MILAN FUTURO, THE EVE OF THE DEBUT

Matchday -1. It's the eve of Milan Futuro's official debut. It has been a fruitful month since July 8, the first official day of work at Milanello: training sessions and three friendlies in preparation for the squad that has also seen some more expert additions join them. The Rossoneri are now speeding towards the first clash of the season, the first-round fixture of the Coppa Italia Serie C against one of the most formidable opponents. 

Coach Bonera's side will play at the Rigamonti-Ceppi in Lecco (21:00 CEST on Saturday 10, live on Sky Sport and NOW), against hosts that played in Serie B last season and are in Group A of Serie C for 2024/25. Two familiar faces for the Rossoneri will be amongst the opponents, having recently been part of the Primavera: Enrico Di Gesù, who joined them from Fiorenzuola and Luca Stanga (back from a loan spell at Juve Stabia).

It will be the first chance for the Rossoneri to gain some experience at this level as well as secure a spot in the Second Round (scheduled for Saturday 17 August) against the winner from Renate v Novara. It has been a positive run-up to the meeting for the Rossoneri, with three friendlies played at Milanello over the last few weeks, resulting in two wins and a defeat.

The wins came with a 2-1 over Caravaggio and a 6-0 over Ciliverghe, and they picked up a narrow defeat (1-2) to Union Clodiense. Something to note is the good form from Gabriele Alesi, back in Rossonero after a season on loan at Sampdoria: the Sicilian winger bagged a goal in the first test against Caravaggio and a hat-trick against Ciliverghe. The hope is that the whole squad's good condition can continue for their official debut.

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