Marco Landucci, assistant manager to Max Allegri, humorously commented on his flawless record with the AC Milan bench following their 3-2 comeback victory over Torino, highlighting Christian Pulisic’s impressive two-goal performance. “This group never gives up,” he noted.
Due to yet another touchline ban for dissent, Allegri had to observe the match from the stands after a heated dispute with Lazio’s staff and referee last week.
Advertisement
Interestingly, Landucci has secured victories in all four matches he has managed in place of Allegri this season—should this arrangement continue?
“I almost jeopardized my record tonight,” he joked during an interview with Sky Sport Italia.
“It’s great that the coach is back, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed…”
Pulisic Sparks AC Milan Comeback
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 08: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match against Torino FC at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 08, 2025. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
In the press section rather than the sky box, Allegri watched as Torino took a commanding 2-0 lead within just 17 minutes, capitalizing on a penalty by Nikola Vlasic following Fikayo Tomori’s handling and a strike from Duvan Zapata.
Advertisement
Adrien Rabiot reignited hopes with a stunning long-range strike, and Pulisic, who had missed the squad earlier due to a high fever, came off the bench to change the course of the game.
“Torino set a trap for us in the first half, and we were foolish to fall for it; instead of spreading the ball wide, we got stuck in the middle. We conceded a penalty and a counter-attack, but I must commend this team for their refusal to give up,” Landucci reflected.
“We’re also grateful to the coaching staff and medical team for working miracles to get Pulisic ready. He was seriously ill recently, but his contribution was invaluable. The whole team’s spirit once again showed its resilience.”
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 08: Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal alongside teammate Matteo Gabbia during the Serie A matchup against Torino FC at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 08, 2025. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Advertisement
What adjustments were made at halftime to inspire such a different attitude from Milan in the second half?
“We did make a few changes, but Rabiot’s goal instilled confidence in us. With Christopher Nkunku positioned as the center-forward and Rabiot alongside Ruben Loftus-Cheek just behind, we found a better balance, allowing us to attack with more fluidity and ultimately secure a crucial victory.”
Beyond Pulisic’s talent, his mindset serves as an inspiration for some teammates who may lack focus.
“Pulisic is an exceptional player; his calm demeanor in the locker room contrasts with his intense determination on the pitch. He’s lethal in front of goal, and with two attempts, he netted two goals—what more could we ask for?”
UDINE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Marco Landucci, assistant Head Coach of AC Milan, observes during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Friuli on September 20, 2025. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Advertisement
Allegri recently remarked that Ruben Loftus-Cheek possesses more potential than he realizes and needs to have confidence in his abilities.
“I couldn’t agree more; it was a fantastic performance today. He has all the makings of a great player, stunted a bit by injuries. He showcased his technique, power, and strength tonight, especially in the second half,” Landucci added.
“Samuele Ricci came off the bench to face his former club, which isn’t an easy task, yet he’s one of those players who grasps instructions immediately. He may not have seen much playtime earlier in the season, but he always puts in the effort with a positive attitude, stepping up when needed.
“This team genuinely enjoys each other’s company and doesn’t complain. That camaraderie is key to our current position, and we aim to keep this momentum going one game at a time.”
Advertisement
However, there was some unfortunate news as Rafael Leao left the field with an injury after a shot in the first half, clutching his right leg’s adductor.
“Leao will undergo tests tomorrow; he felt discomfort in his adductor, and we hope it’s not serious, but we won’t have clarity until the morning.”