Inler on Udinese change to neutralise AC Milan ‘strength’ and Modric ambition | OneFootball

Udinese director Gokhan Inler explains the change of tactics to neutralise ‘Milan’s main strength’ and jokes he could get back on the field like Luka Modric at age 41.

It kicks off at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

The Friulani are unbeaten so far this season in Serie A, earning a draw and two victories, including the surprise 2-1 win away to Inter at San Siro.

Udinese shifted tactics to counter Milan midfield

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 31: Keinan Davis of Udinese celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 31, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

This evening, they have brought back the 4-4-2 formation that had not been seen since last term.

“We made a change because this system was used in pre-season training, so the lads do know how to move in this shape. We want to be solid in midfield and focused there, which is Milan’s main strength,” Inler told Sky Sport Italia.

“We are working on both fitness and mental training, as in Serie A you need the players well-drilled and it is a more physical league than it used to be. We are analysing the statistics, which give us an extra step, and the coach pays close attention to those elements.

“The lads must do everything possible to get the best result.”

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 14: Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Inler is a former midfielder and faced off against Modric at Tottenham, but while one is retired, the other is still playing at the age of 40.

“Modric is a year younger than me, so maybe I could still play…” joked Inler.

“I remember playing against him, we won 2-0 and he came on in the second half. I also played against him at international level. Luka sets a great example for everyone.”