AC Milan face a delicate selection dilemma ahead of their Serie A opener at San Siro against Cremonese. Rafael Leão has been ruled out with a calf injury sustained during the Coppa Italia clash with Bari. Though the Portuguese forward may return for the trip to Lecce, he misses the league opener. In response, manager Massimiliano Allegri is poised to start Santiago Giménez alongside Christian Pulisic up front.
Complicating matters further is the fitness of Samuel Chukwueze, who is carrying a minor muscle problem. It is not deemed serious, but he remains a doubt for Saturday’s match. Allegri values his presence for squad depth, particularly as there is no natural replacement for Chukwueze on the bench should he be unavailable.
His uncertain status also carries potential transfer implications. Chukwueze, who joined Milan from Villarreal in 2023 at age 26, was close to completing a move to Fulham during the January transfer window. Although that deal collapsed, Fulham continue to monitor his fitness and may still consider a move before the summer window closes.
Editorial
We see Milan’s precarious situation as a reminder that elite football hinges on both strength and depth. A single injury notably to someone as influential as Rafael Leão can shift the balance significantly, forcing coaches into difficult decisions and tactical recalibrations.
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We understand why Allegri is concerned. Losing Leão and possibly Chukwueze would strip the Rossoneri of their natural flair and creativity up front. Such disruptions underscore the importance of comprehensive squad planning and not just at the elite level, but for every club aiming for consistency across competitions.
We believe that for Chukwueze, this moment is pivotal. Strong performances now could reaffirm his value to Milan or reignite interest from clubs like Fulham, who remain watchful. It’s often at times of challenge when players prove their mettle both on the pitch and in the transfer market.
This scenario also signals a broader lesson: injuries can’t just be managed they must be anticipated. Squad coherence, adaptability, and strategic foresight are essential. And although we sympathise with Milan’s predicament, we also appreciate the opportunity such circumstances present for players like Chukwueze to show why they deserve their place and beyond.
Did You Know?
- Samuel Chukwueze joined AC Milan from Villarreal in 2023 at age 26—a strategic acquisition aimed at adding pace and creativity to their attack.
- Rafael Leão’s calf injury occurred during Milan’s Coppa Italia match with Bari, ruling him out of their upcoming Serie A opener.
- Santiago Giménez is currently lining up to partner Christian Pulisic in attack, indicating a shift in Milan’s offensive setup.
- Chukwueze was on the verge of moving to Fulham in the January window before negotiations fell apart.
- Fulham remains interested in Chukwueze, keeping close watch on his fitness and form ahead of potential late-window moves.
