Real playmaker Kaka returns to the San Siro stadium for the first time as the Spaniards visit his old club hoping to avenge their 3-2 defeat at the Bernabeu. That result prompted a dramatic turnaround in the fortunes of the two sides. AC Milan’s rookie Brazilian coach Leonardo, who went into the game under severe pressure, is now sitting pretty after an unbeaten seven-match run while opposite number Manuel Pellegrini is feeling the heat.

Pellegrini’s position was questioned after Real’s embarrassing 4-0 defeat by third-tier Alcorcon in the King’s Cup made it three games without a win.

Defeat on Tuesday could see another storm brewing for the coach, who will again be without injured Cristiano Ronaldo. Milan and Real top Group C with six points, three ahead of Olympique Marseille and FC Zurich who meet in France.

Crisis-hit Atletico, on just one point in Group D, are unlikely to improve their record when they host in-form Chelsea. Chelsea beat the Spanish side 4-0 two weeks ago and have scored 13 goals without reply in three domestic games since. Carlo Ancelotti’s team have nine points, one of four teams with 100 per cent records along with Manchester United, Lyon and Sevilla.

Bayern Munich coach Louis van Gaal may again leave Mario Gomez, the Bundesliga’s most expensive signing, on the bench for the visit of Group A leaders Bordeaux. Bayern are two points behind second-placed Juventus who should pick up three more at hapless Maccabi.

Close to knockout rounds

MANCHESTER: Injury-hit Manchester United can advance to the knockout round with a win over CSKA Moscow on Tuesday.