Preview: Kaka's return will help overshadow Milan's injury list
When Ricardo Kaka left Milan to apply his trade at the Santiago Bernabeu, Rossoneri fans were left with hope that he would one day return to the San Siro. After playing for the Italian side from 2003-2009, Kaka became an icon, but his injuries while in Madrid limited his impact in the squad.
Heading into the 2013/14 campaign, Milan fans were hoping to see some defensive signings, but apart from the arrival of Cristian Zaccardo, Allegri's squad still lacks depth in their own third.
But putting all of that aside, Galliani traveled to Madrid on deadline day, and brought with him a gift that will help Milan fans forget their defensive issues, even if just for a week or so.
Ricardo Kaka looks destined to make his return to the pitch wearing his beloved AC Milan kit, and Rossoneri fans will be on the edge of their seats, waiting for the moment they dreamt of since his departure four years ago.
Aware of all the hype and hysteria involving Kaka's return, Allegri has done his best to lower expectations, at least for now.
"Kaka has great quality," Allegri told reporters after the Brazilian midfielder finalized his return to the club.
"He is a champion and his presence raises the level of self-confidence throughout the squad. I must do well to get the best out of him, and help him reach peak fitness. You cannot expect a player, even of his his level to be ready straight away," he added.
Regardless of how ready he is, given the departure of Kevin-Prince Boateng to Schalke 04, Kaka is likely to get the start. In his probable return, he will not get the chance to lineup along side Ignazio Abate, Daniele Bonera, Mattia De Sciglio, Giampaolo Pazzini and Mattias Silvestre, who are all out with injuries.
Although they are missing a number of players, Milan should still be able to get past a Turin side that is projected to struggle this season.
Their opening match in Serie A started well, as they defeated Sassuolo with goals from Brighi and Cerci. A second match away to Atlanta did not go so well, as they fell 2-0 in their first away match. A return home could give them a lift, but if the Granata are going to defeat Milan for the first time in their last 11 meetings, they will need their two front men to put in a solid performance.
Without Angelo Ogbonna who made his way to Juventus, the hosts back three could face some changes due to injuries.
Two questionable defensive lines will be put to the test on Saturday, but Milan will be expected to come away with the victory without a doubt.
Where to watch - live stream, start time, TV channels, live scores
Watch Torino vs AC Milan live on Saturday, September 14, 2013:
In the UK at 19:45 BST on: BT Sport 1
In the USA at 14:45 ET on: beIN Sport Play
If you are outside of these viewing areas, be sure to visit the Torino vs AC Milan match page for full TV listings.
