El Milan’s Amorim sparks optimism with early Serie A win

Under the floodlights of the Olimpico Grande Torino, El Milan opened Serie A Jornada 1 with a 2-1 triumph over Torino, a win that sparked optimism for Rúben Amorim’s project as Alphadjo Cissé and Adrien Rabiot found the net in the second half.

The match, played on 23 August 2026, marked Serie A Jornada 1 and was reported by Marco Alpozzi of LaPresseEFE. Adrien Rabiot not only assisted but also scored, confirming his impact early in the season.

Amorim's Vision

Rúben Amorim, the Portuguese coach, drew on lessons from José Mourinho’s school of coaching. He previously guided Sporting Portugal before a brief, unsuccessful spell at Manchester United, aiming to replicate that success with Milan.

Milan have not lifted the Scudetto since 2022, a drought the club hopes to end this campaign. A revamped board has authorized significant spending in the transfer market to support Amorim’s vision.

Milan's Tactical Edge

Milan imposed a high‑pressing game, exploiting the flanks where Samuel Chukwueze proved a key outlet. Defender De Winter featured in the starting eleven, reinforcing Milan’s defense. Torino responded on the break, relying on forward Giovanni Simeone to create chances.

Gonçalo Ramos made his Milan debut but failed to produce a clear chance, blocked by Torino defender Ardian Ismajili. Spanish defender Mario Gila, a former Real Madrid player arriving from Lazio, left the pitch in the second half with discomfort.

Luka Modric entered the fray in the 56th minute, delivering two dangerous balls from a corner within three minutes. The 41‑year‑old Croatian, whose birthday falls on 9 September, sought to add experience to the side.

Alphadjo Cissé, aged 19, opened the scoring in the 64th minute with a long shot that hit the far post. It was his first appearance for Milan in both the club and Serie A, and Amorim’s gamble paid off.

Two minutes later, substitute Adrien Rabiot capitalised on a ball delivered by Chukwueze, slotting it past the keeper to double Milan’s lead. Gonçalo Ramos nearly added a third, but his effort was saved.

Torino reduced the deficit in the 93rd minute when Che Adams scored with a technical volley that looped over the line. The match report recorded the Goles: Cissé (64'), Rabiot (66'), and Che Adams (93').

Key Moments and Future Fixtures

Milan closed the match without further concession, honoring late club legend Franco Baresi with a commemorative “6 per sempre” patch on their left sleeves for the season. In the next round, Torino travel to face Sassuolo, while Milan host Venezia, who were beaten 0-2 by Lecce on Sunday.

Both teams look to build on their performances as the Serie A campaign progresses.