New AC Milan signing Mario Gila suffered an early injury scare during his first appearance for the club, though coach Ruben Amorim has played down the severity of the setback. The 25-year-old centre-back was forced off during Saturday’s 2-2 pre-season draw with Celtic at Parkhead after feeling discomfort in the quadriceps of his right leg.
The Spaniard, who joined the Rossoneri from Lazio a fortnight ago in a deal worth €25 million plus €5 million in bonuses, had been on the pitch for approximately 22 minutes when he signalled to the bench. He was replaced by 18-year-old defender Valeri Vladimirov in the 67th minute of the friendly encounter, which marked Milan’s first official pre-season outing of the summer.
Amorim offers reassurance
Speaking after the match, Amorim indicated that the defender’s withdrawal was precautionary rather than indicative of a major problem. “He felt something, but I don’t think it’s anything serious. I hope and think he will recover soon,” the Portuguese coach told Corriere dello Sport.
The incident briefly dampened proceedings for Milan, who are using the pre-season period to integrate new arrivals and build match fitness. Gila had been expected to play a significant role in strengthening the club’s defensive options following his high-profile summer transfer from the Italian capital.
Camarda brilliance secures draw
The injury concern aside, the match itself provided encouragement for Amorim in attack. Milan had fallen two goals behind during the first half in Glasgow, but teenage striker Francesco Camarda inspired a comeback with a quickfire brace. The 17-year-old found the net twice within seven minutes of his introduction to salvage a draw for the Serie A outfit.
Australia preparations continue
Despite his premature exit, Gila remains in contention to travel with the squad to Australia as they continue their pre-season tour. The club will monitor the defender’s recovery closely, hoping the issue proves as minor as Amorim suggested.
Milan continue their summer schedule with further fixtures planned as the squad builds towards the start of the competitive campaign.