The return to training at Milanello brings news that demands attention on the injury front. After the two-day break granted by Rúben Amorim over the weekend, the Rossoneri squad returned to work this Monday, but two key players are keeping the medical staff on alert: Alexis Saelemaekers and Pervis Estupiñán.
Saelemaekers: Ankle Pain Persists
The Belgian midfielder had injured his ankle roughly a week ago, upon returning from a previous rest period. As reported in recent days, scans had ruled out bone and ligament damage, classifying the issue as a simple sprain. However, in today’s session Saelemaekers attempted to rejoin the group, pushing through the still-painful joint, without being able to train at full intensity.
The pain persists, and further diagnostic checks are scheduled in the coming hours to assess whether any complications have developed over the past week. The Rossoneri medical staff will monitor the situation closely. His availability against Sassuolo looks very unlikely at this stage.
Estupiñán: Knee Issue During the International Break
Concerning news has also emerged from Ecuador, where Pervis Estupiñán suffered a knee problem during the international break. The official statement from the Ecuadorian Football Federation refers to a sprain with an associated internal injury, a diagnosis that immediately put Milan on high alert.
The national team’s medical staff promptly contacted the Rossoneri’s medical department to share the results of the tests carried out in Ecuador. A note of cautious optimism came from Ecuador’s head coach, who at a press conference described the issue as «nothing to worry about», though this created a degree of discrepancy with the official medical bulletin.
The left-back will return to Italy in the coming hours to undergo new tests at Milan’s facilities, with the club wanting a precise clinical picture before making any final assessment. In all likelihood, Estupiñán will not be fit for the Sassuolo fixture.
Amorim’s Options on the Left Flank
The absence of the Rossoneri’s number 3 opens up a battle for the left-back slot. The leading candidate to replace him is Davide Bartesaghi, the young Italian full-back who came through the Milan academy, who could earn a starting berth. Tactical alternatives linked to a potential change in defensive shape by the Portuguese head coach are also not ruled out.
From tomorrow, Tuesday, the internationals will progressively return to Milanello, and Amorim will finally be able to work with a fuller squad ahead of the next league fixture. Despite the physical setbacks, the Rossoneri squad looks forward with determination.
