AC Milan welcome Ferencvaros to San Siro on Thursday night knowing that anything less than victory could leave their Europa League campaign in serious jeopardy.

While the Italian giants sit precariously near the cutoff line after an inconsistent start to the league phase, Ferencvaros arrive in Milan with a perfect record and growing belief that a place in the top eight is within reach.

Verdict: Both sides to score

Best odds: 17/20

Bookmaker: 22bet

AC Milan

Milan’s Europa League campaign has been anything but straightforward.

The Rossoneri began with defeat against Benfica before responding with a commanding 4-0 victory over Salzburg. However, their progress was halted dramatically on matchday three as Bournemouth secured a stunning 3-0 victory, leaving Ruben Amorim’s side with just three points from three matches.

The pressure is now increasing on Milan, who currently occupy one of the final playoff positions and can ill afford another setback.

Domestically, though, there are signs of encouragement. After a disappointing defeat to Bologna, Milan produced one of their best performances of the season by defeating city rivals Inter 3-1 in the Derby della Madonnina. That victory has revived optimism around Amorim’s project and moved the club closer to the leading group in Serie A.

Team News

Squad rotation is expected, with several younger players potentially earning opportunities. Alphadjo Cisse is pushing for a starting role after an impressive run of form, while Omari Hutchinson and Davide Bartesaghi may also feature.

Goalkeeper Mike Maignan is suspended following his red card against Bournemouth, meaning Lorenzo Torriani is expected to start.

Injuries continue to affect the hosts, with Fikayo Tomori, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Samuel Chukwueze, Alexis Saelemaekers and Mattia Gabbia all unavailable.

Ferencvaros

Ferencvaros have been one of the surprise packages of this season’s Europa League.

The Hungarian champions have collected maximum points from their opening three matches, defeating Celtic, Viktoria Plzen and Torreense to establish themselves among the league phase frontrunners.

Balazs Borbely’s side now sit fourth in the standings and appear well placed to challenge for automatic qualification to the last 16.

Their strong European performances reflect impressive overall form. Across domestic and continental competition, Ferencvaros have suffered only one defeat all season and continue to build momentum. A 2-0 victory over Paks at the weekend ensured they remained firmly in contention for another Hungarian league title.

Team News

The visitors possess a growing attacking threat. Kristoffer Zachariassen and Dele Yusuf have both enjoyed productive starts to the Europa League campaign, while Veljko Birmancevic adds pace and creativity in wide areas.

There are only a couple of notable absences. Matus Bero is unavailable in midfield, while Bence Otvos remains out with a long-term knee injury.

Key Factors to Consider

• Ferencvaros have won all three Europa League matches this season.
• AC Milan have collected only three points from their opening three fixtures.
• The Rossoneri beat Inter 3-1 in the Milan derby at the weekend.
• Ferencvaros have lost only once in all competitions this season.
• Mike Maignan is suspended for Milan.
• The Hungarian champions are unbeaten away from home in Europe this season.

Conclusion

Ferencvaros arrive in Italy with every reason to be confident and should make life difficult for a Milan side still searching for consistency in Europe.

However, San Siro remains a formidable venue, and the derby victory over Inter may prove to be a turning point for Amorim’s team. While the visitors are capable of competing for long periods, Milan’s greater individual quality and growing confidence should ultimately make the difference.

Expect a competitive contest, one that the Rossoneri are narrowly favoured to win, but not with a clean sheet.