A 4-0 demolition of Salzburg in the Europa League has given AC Milan a significant confidence boost after a stuttering start to the season. Alphadjo Cissé delivered a historic hat-trick, becoming the youngest Italian to score a European hat-trick, while Gonçalo Ramos ended a personal goal drought and young players like Omari Hutchinson and Davide Bartesaghi impressed in Austria. The result was a statement from Ruben Amorim, who rotated heavily and was rewarded with one of Milan's most complete performances of the campaign.

The win matters beyond the scoreline. Milan had lost their Europa League opener to Benfica and dropped points in Serie A against Sassuolo, leaving the project under scrutiny. Owner Gerry Cardinale's reported frustration had added to the pressure on Amorim, who publicly dismissed any friction with the club hierarchy. The Salzburg result eases some of that tension and gives the squad a platform to build on.

Squad depth remains a concern. Terracciano is suspended after a late red card in Austria, while Gabbia and Saelemaekers are out injured. Amorim is expected to rotate again for Sunday's Serie A home match against Atalanta, with Cissé pushing for a starting role and Pulisic potentially dropping to the bench. Sixth in Serie A with 12 points from six games, Milan need consistency in the league to match the momentum now building in Europe.