AC Milan are expected to rest Luka Modric against Bologna as manager Ruben Amorim prioritises the Croatian midfielder’s fitness for Saturday’s derby against Inter.
The Bologna match will be played at San Siro at 18:30. Amorim is considering a midfield pairing of Yunus Musah and Reda Belahyane’s teammate, Jashari, in Modric’s absence, according to the reported team plans. The final lineup remains subject to official confirmation before kickoff.
Modric’s planned rest is aimed at having him at “100%” for the Inter derby. The 40-year-old remains a key creative outlet for Milan despite the decision to manage his minutes against Bologna.
According to OptaPaolo, Modric has recorded four assists since turning 40. That is the highest total by any player aged over 40 since Serie A returned to a 20-team format in the 2004-05 season. He has moved ahead of former Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who registered three assists in the same period.
The decision gives Jashari and Musah an opportunity to provide energy and ball progression in midfield, while allowing Milan to protect Modric’s creative influence for the more demanding fixture against Inter.
AC Milan’s midfield situation
The choice reflects Milan’s short-term scheduling priorities rather than a reported injury concern involving Modric. The club wants the veteran midfielder available for the derby, where his passing range and experience could be especially important.
Bologna, meanwhile, will face a Milan side potentially missing its most experienced midfielder from the starting XI. The match also gives Amorim a chance to assess how Jashari and Musah operate together before the Inter fixture.
OptaPaolo’s figures place Modric’s recent output in a notable historical context, while the reported selection plan shows how Milan are balancing immediate league demands with the derby that follows. The official starting lineups will confirm whether both Jashari and Musah begin the match.
| Benchmark or milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Upcoming match | AC Milan vs Bologna at San Siro |
| Kickoff | 18:30 |
| Player being rested | Luka Modric |
| Midfielders under consideration | Jashari and Yunus Musah |
| Modric’s assists after turning 40 | Four |
| Previous benchmark | Zlatan Ibrahimovic with three assists |
| Next major fixture | Saturday derby against Inter |
Key Factual ClarificationsEditorial Q&A
Why is AC Milan resting Luka Modric against Bologna?
AC Milan want Modric fully fit for Saturday’s derby against Inter. Amorim is therefore considering resting him against Bologna.
Who could replace Modric in AC Milan’s midfield?
Jashari and Yunus Musah are being considered as the midfield pairing against Bologna. Their selection will be confirmed when the official lineup is announced.
When and where is AC Milan vs Bologna being played?
The match is scheduled for San Siro, with kickoff at 18:30.
How many assists has Modric recorded after turning 40?
Modric has recorded four assists after turning 40, according to OptaPaolo. That is one more than Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s total of three.
Why do Milan and Bologna have the same logo?
AC Milan and Bologna do not have the same club logo. Their crests use different designs and colours, although both clubs have a long history in Italian football.
