AC Milan Face Midfield Blow as Rabiot Injury Puts Loftus-Cheek in Spotlight
Milan, Italy – AC Milan are preparing to cope with a potentially significant midfield setback after fears emerged that French international Adrien Rabiot could be sidelined for up to a month due to a muscular injury.
Rabiot, who returned from international duty with France nursing a muscle problem, is now expected to miss a minimum of two weeks, with reports from Sky Sport Italia, Calciomercato.com, and L’Équipe suggesting that a full recovery could take up to four weeks.
The timing of the injury is a blow for Milan, with Rabiot having quickly cemented himself as a pivotal figure in the Rossoneri midfield since his late summer arrival from Olympique Marseille. His presence added much-needed stability and experience in central areas — an impact that has not gone unnoticed by manager Max Allegri.
Loftus-Cheek to Step In Against Fiorentina
With Rabiot ruled out for the foreseeable future, Allegri is expected to turn to Ruben Loftus-Cheek to fill the gap in the upcoming Serie A clash against Fiorentina this weekend. The English midfielder, who has had a mixed start to his Milan career, now finds himself at the heart of a key tactical shift.
Despite high hopes for Samuele Ricci, the Italian midfielder who arrived from Torino amid much fanfare, sources close to the club suggest he remains low in the current pecking order. Ricci was seen as a potential breakout candidate this season, but his performances in training have not yet convinced the coaching staff to hand him a starting role in such a crucial fixture.
Injuries Mount as Jashari Also Remains Out
Another potential option, Ardon Jashari, continues his recovery from a fractured fibula and is not yet ready for selection. The Swiss midfielder had been considered a viable candidate to step into Rabiot’s role due to his versatility and defensive strength, but his rehabilitation is still ongoing.
The accumulation of midfield absences puts added pressure on Allegri and his technical team, who now face a tricky period in the Serie A campaign. Milan will need to manage their squad carefully as they aim to maintain their position near the top of the table.
Milan’s Tactical Puzzle
Rabiot’s injury forces a rethink of Milan’s midfield dynamics. Known for his progressive carries and ball retention, the Frenchman offered balance alongside defensive and attacking midfield roles. Loftus-Cheek, while more physical and direct, brings a different profile — one that could change Milan’s shape and transition play.
Allegri may also consider shifting to a more defensive system or adjusting his wingers’ roles to compensate for Rabiot’s absence. The next few fixtures — particularly against Fiorentina — will serve as a crucial test of depth and tactical adaptability.
What’s Next?
- Milan vs. Fiorentina – Serie A Matchday Preview
- Potential Return Date for Rabiot: Mid-to-Late November
- Loftus-Cheek’s Opportunity to Cement Starting Role
As fans await updates on Rabiot’s recovery timeline, all eyes will be on Loftus-Cheek to see whether he can seize the moment — and lead Milan through a challenging stretch without one of their most influential new signings.
