AC Milan is grappling with a significant setback following injuries to two pivotal players, Alexis Saelemaekers and Pervis Estupinan. This unfortunate situation compels coach Ruben Amorim to rethink his squad’s formation.
Critical Injuries Before Key Matchup
Saelemaekers‘ injury is particularly alarming, as medical assessments suggest he may require surgery on his right ankle. The Belgian winger is projected to be sidelined for a minimum of four months, meaning he might not return until well into 2027. In the meantime, Estupinan suffered a knee injury while representing Ecuador, confirmed to keep him off the field during the upcoming match against Sassuolo. Further evaluations are pending to establish the extent of his recovery time.
With two crucial players out, Amorim’s options on the left flank are severely limited. The Portuguese coach must now devise a strategic plan before the team resumes play after the international break.
Challenges and Possible Tactical Adjustments
The injury to Saelemaekers has escalated into a more serious dilemma than initially anticipated. Follow-up tests indicated a loss of stability in the area of his previously operated ankle from a 2024 injury. This complicates matters further, as the problem originates from his earlier surgery for a fractured medial malleolus. Saelemaekers sustained a sprain during training on September 29, which made matters worse when it affected the same area that had previously required surgery.
Estupinan’s injury arose while playing for Ecuador against Japan, where medical imaging showed a sprained knee coupled with discomfort within the joint. His absence significantly hampers Amorim, who now faces a void on the left side of the field, especially for the imminent clash against Sassuolo.
If Milan sticks with the 4-2-3-1 formation, young talent Davide Bartesaghi appears to be the most suitable candidate to step into the role. Amorim is not only tasked with filling in for Saelemaekers but also needs a long-term replacement strategy.
Potential solutions might include bringing in Diego Moreira, who has shown promise on the wing and is currently performing well for Milan. However, integrating Moreira alongside Samuel Chukwueze, Christian Pulisic, Goncalo Ramos, and Luka Modric could pose challenges in maintaining team balance. Hence, Amorim is contemplating other alternatives, like reallocating Adrien Rabiot to the left flank or introducing Jashari or Yunus Musah into the midfield.
An alternative could involve switching to a 3-4-2-1 setup. In such a scheme, Bartesaghi could take on wing duties, allowing Ruben Loftus-Cheek to operate higher up the pitch, just behind the strikers. All these tactical options must be clearly defined by Amorim as the team gears up for the match against Sassuolo.
That game at the MAPEI Stadium will mark the beginning of a demanding sequence for Milan and will put the team’s adaptability to the test without two essential players in the left sector.
As the team faces these unforeseen challenges, it remains crucial for the coaching staff to maintain a strong morale and adapt effectively to maximize performance under pressure.
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