The final stop on Barcelona’s US tour which has seen them win one and lose one so far.
Their 4-2 defeat to Roma only came as a result of a collapse in the last 12 minutes, and given the inexperience in the travelling Barcelona squad, coach Ernesto Valverde has to be pleased with what he’s seen so far.
For example, the three new signings; Malcom, Arthur and Clement Lenglet, have all settled in fantastically well, and they will give him options during the course of the 2018/19 campaign.
Gennaro Gattuso should also be smiling, having captured Gonzalo Higuain and Mattia Caldara in exchange for Leonardo Bonucci heading back to Juventus.
Let’s take a look at three things that could influence the outcome of this one…
Leaky defences
In both of their International Champions Cup games, Barca and Milan have conceded.
It’s worth pointing out that the goals that Valverde’s side have let in have come as a direct result of making multiple substitutions, as before changing things around, the youngsters have held their own.
Milan have no such excuse given that they’ve a strong side for this tournament.
Coincidentally, the two teams have an identical record from their last four matches, and with goals assured, this could be a great watch.
Rafinha reminder
Another player who has had a super pre-season for Barcelona to this point is Rafinha Alcantara.
His future remains up in the air at this stage, but there’s no doubting that he’s impressed his coach, who admitted as much earlier in the week.
The midfielder has been a real spark for the Blaugrana, and if he attacks the space in behind Bonaventura, forcing Locatelli to cover, it could pay dividends.
Having had experience of playing for Milan’s Serie A rivals Inter, the Brazilian will know exactly what’s coming, and that can only be of benefit to how he approaches the game.
Last chance for Silva?
At 22 years of age, Andre Silva still has a long career ahead of him, but with the arrival of Gonzalo Higuain, this pre-season is his last chance to prove he’s still worthy of a place up front.
The youngster produced some impressive performances after his transfer from Porto last summer, but in truth, they were few and far between in Serie A.
Though there’s no suggestion that he’ll be sold so soon after joining, when he gets the opportunities to impress – such as this one – he has to take them.
His pace should and movement will likely cause Barca problems throughout.
