Speaking at his pre-match press conference at Milanello, Allegri stressed the importance of the fixture as Milan enter what he described as a decisive phase of the campaign.

"The future for us is tomorrow's game in Bologna, and it must be conquered," Allegri said. "It will not be easy because in February the points start to weigh more."

Allegri expects a demanding evening at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, praising Bologna's intensity and style of play. "Bologna are a team that jump on you, that play with speed and press man-to-man," he explained. "They usually create a lot. We will need a very serious performance against an aggressive and intense team."

Despite Bologna having won only once in their last ten league matches, Allegri warned against complacency. "They come from a good win in the Europa League and will want to show that the recent negative league results were just a coincidence," he added.

On the team news, Allegri confirmed that Alexis Saelemaekers will miss the match due to a recurrence of an adductor problem. Christian Pulisic remains a doubt with bursitis. "It bothers him, but if he feels better today, he will come with us," Allegri said. Rafael Leao, however, is available for selection.

Allegri also underlined the importance of players returning to full fitness. "Recovering players like Pulisic, Leao, Fullkrug and Gimenez will be our best signings," he said, following the club's decision not to add a striker before the transfer window closed after Jean-Philippe Mateta failed additional medical checks.

Tactically, Allegri admitted Milan must improve in possession. "We have lost too many balls in the build-up and opponents jumped on us. We need to improve a lot in that aspect," he said.

With Inter eight points clear at the top, Allegri remains realistic but determined. "I am satisfied with the squad, but the points we have are not enough to achieve our goal," he said. "We need to work for the good of the club, not for personal reasons."

As Milan begin a demanding run through February and March, Allegri knows this trip to Bologna is the first step in keeping their title hopes alive.

Massimiliano Allegri warns AC Milan to stay focused ahead of Bologna battle