Matteo Gabbia had to leave Milan's match against Sassuolo on a stretcher after just 20 minutes due to a flexor muscle injury. The 26-year-old defender, who was playing his first match as a starter, was replaced by Koni De Winter in the 19th minute. The fall occurred when Gabbia was trying to get ahead of the French striker Laurienté, ending up in a very difficult position which forced him to leave the pitch.
Before the injury, Gabbia had only accumulated 17 minutes of playing time this season, spread over two games. His absence has affected Milan's defensive structure, which has already faced coverage problems following the defeat against Sassuolo. The club stated that the flexor injury is the main cause of his unavailability and that the player is currently recovering.
Coach Stefano Pioli expressed relief at Gabbia's situation, underlining that the team is working to eliminate defensive weaknesses. Meanwhile, Milan continues to look for solutions to strengthen their defensive line, especially after the recent defeat against Sassuolo. The club will have to evaluate the options available to fill Gabbia's role in the next matches, while the player waits to return to fitness.