The Space Between: Torino vs AC Milan

Torino host AC Milan at the Olimpico Grande Torino to open the 2026-27 Serie A season on August 23 -2-8-9.

Ruben Amorim takes charge of a new Milan project, and the opening minutes will expose his plan. Watch the distance between Milan's midfield and attack. If the space becomes too large, Torino's compact shape will cut the passing lanes before the ball reaches the front line -5.

Torino will press from the front three's spacing. If they force Milan's centre-backs wide, the full-backs become the outlet. That is where Amorim's shape gets tested.

The first ten minutes will show whether Milan can build through the half-spaces or whether Torino controls the central area. A slow start from a new-look side often reveals structural problems before the scoreboard does.

Give the match ten minutes. Look at the space between the units, not the ball.

Question: How do you expect Amorim to set up Milan's full-backs to beat Torino's press?