Rome, Sep 25 (AP) Luka Modric and Kevin De Bruyne, familiar foes from their numerous Champions League encounters, are set for their first Serie A showdown at the iconic San Siro on Sunday. The clash between Modric's AC Milan and De Bruyne's Napoli promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the Italian league's powerhouses.
Modric, now 40, has rejuvenated Milan and turned them into credible title contenders. Meanwhile, De Bruyne, 34, continues to be a key force in maintaining Napoli's dominance as the team to beat this season.
While Napoli aims to continue its flawless start, Milan seeks its fifth consecutive victory across all competitions.
Modric arrived at Milan after a distinguished 13-year career with Real Madrid, whereas De Bruyne made his move after a decade at Manchester City.
The two midfield maestros have met 13 times on the pitch for club and country, with De Bruyne's teams clinching five wins, Modric's sides securing four, and four matches ending in draws.
In their brief Serie A tenure, both players have been instrumental. Modric notched the decisive goal against Bologna and provided an assist in the win over Lecce, completing 335 minutes in four matches, twice playing the full game.
Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri commented, "He always knows where the ball will end up before anyone else."
De Bruyne has seamlessly integrated into Napoli's impressive midfield, scoring twice in four Serie A appearances. His presence has been vital in the club's Champions League journey.
Napoli coach Antonio Conte noted, "He has humbly immersed himself in our club. We needed someone like him."
Key Matchups It isn't just about Modric and De Bruyne. Sunday’s match also marks the reunion of coaches who have claimed 11 of the last 15 Serie A titles.
Massimiliano Allegri and Antonio Conte haven't faced each other in 12 years, with their last encounter dating back to October 2013, when Conte's Juventus defeated Allegri's Milan. Post that season, Allegri replaced Conte at Juventus and led them to five consecutive titles.
Conte later managed Italy, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Tottenham, returning to Serie A success with Napoli. Allegri, after another stint with Juventus, is back with Milan this season.
Milan faces a challenging fortnight beginning with Napoli, followed by a visit to Juventus next weekend.
This Saturday, Juventus will host Atalanta, while unbeaten Cremonese travels to play Como.
Players to Watch Inter Milan's 20-year-old forward Pio Esposito hasn't scored in Serie A yet, but he is gaining attention for his physical prowess. He nearly scored three times against Sassuolo last weekend.
"He knows how to do a bit of everything," praised Inter's coach, Cristian Chivu.
Inter is set to visit Cagliari on Saturday, where Pio will face his older brother, Sebastiano Esposito. Another brother, Salvatore, plays for Serie B side Spezia.
American forward Christian Pulisic is on fire, with five goals in six matches for Milan this season.
Out of Action Milan's Rafael Leão, sidelined with a calf injury since an Italian Cup game on August 17, might return against Napoli, likely as a substitute.
Roma's playmaker Paulo Dybala remains absent due to a muscle problem for Sunday's game against Hellas Verona, though Roma has been performing well without him, winning the Rome derby and defeating Nice in the Europa League.
Off the Field On Thursday, Milan's city council discussed the potential sale of the San Siro to Milan and Inter, with a vote set for Monday. If approved, the historic 99-year-old stadium would be replaced by a new arena, jointly developed by the clubs.
Both clubs have reached an agreement with architectural firms Foster + Partners and Manica to design the new stadium, contingent on the council's decision. AP SSC SSC
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