Matteo Gabbia has been ruled out of AC Milan’s pre-season friendly against Manchester United on Saturday after sustaining an ankle injury. The Italian centre-back becomes the latest absentee as new head coach Ruben Amorim prepares to face his former club in Wroclaw, Poland.
Multiple reports confirm that Gabbia suffered an impact injury to his ankle, forcing him to remain in Milan rather than travel with the squad. His withdrawal compounds a growing selection crisis for the Rossoneri, who expect to be without at least eight first-team players for the fixture.
Amorim begins squad overhaul
The match comes approximately one month into Amorim’s tenure at the San Siro, and the Portuguese coach has already begun a radical assessment of his inherited squad. He has reportedly drawn up a list of players he considers surplus to requirements, with several established names facing uncertain futures.
England international Fikayo Tomori, young defender David Odogu, midfielders Youssouf Fofana and Christopher Nkunku are among those Amorim is prepared to sell. None of these players are expected to be involved against the Premier League outfit this weekend as the club looks to finalise potential departures.
Defensive options stretched
The absence of Gabbia, combined with the expected exits of Tomori and Odogu, leaves Milan’s defence particularly thin. The situation offers an opportunity for Mario Gila, who has returned to the squad following an absence and may be required to start the match.
The friendly in Poland represents Amorim’s first significant test against elite opposition since taking charge. Having managed Manchester United earlier this year, the fixture carries additional significance for the 39-year-old as he attempts to implement his philosophy with a rapidly changing group of players.
Milan’s depleted squad highlights the transitional phase the club currently faces. With key decisions on outgoings still pending and injuries mounting, Amorim must balance immediate results with long-term squad building during a demanding pre-season schedule.