The 25-year-old centre-back, who recently completed a €25 million transfer from Lazio with potential bonuses rising to €30 million, was withdrawn early during the 2-2 draw in Glasgow after feeling discomfort in his right quadriceps. The incident occurred during his first official appearance in red and black and briefly threatened to derail Ruben Amorim’s defensive plans.

Gila was replaced by 18-year-old defender Valeri Vladimirov as a precautionary measure, with initial fears of a lengthy absence now allayed by medical tests.

Amorim plays down concerns

Milan coach Ruben Amorim immediately sought to calm fears following the match, insisting the withdrawal was precautionary rather than indicative of structural damage. “He felt something, but I don’t think it’s anything serious. I hope and think he will recover soon,” Amorim told Corriere dello Sport.

The Portuguese tactician’s assessment appears justified following scans that confirmed no major muscle tear. Gila is expected to remain with the travelling party as the squad continues pre-season preparations, avoiding the fitness worry that had threatened to disrupt the early weeks of Amorim’s tenure.

Camarda brace salvages draw

While the injury scare provided an unwelcome distraction, the match itself offered attacking encouragement for the new manager. Milan trailed by two goals at the interval following defensive lapses in the first half, but teenage sensation Francesco Camarda inspired a remarkable turnaround.

The 17-year-old striker netted twice within seven minutes of his introduction to secure a draw for the Serie A outfit. The result leaves questions to answer at the back, yet the character of the second-half response and the continued development of the club’s younger players offered Amorim valuable insight into his squad’s resilience.

Milan continue their summer schedule with further fixtures planned as they build towards the competitive campaign, with Gila now cleared to resume training pending full recovery from the minor strain.

Estupinan has been heavily linked with a return to the Premier League, with Aston Villa identified as his most likely destination. The Midlands club are reportedly close to selling French left-back Lucas Digne to Paris Saint-Germain, a move that would create immediate space in their squad for a new defender.

Amorim demands evaluation period

However, recent reports from Italy indicate that Amorim, who was recently appointed as Milan head coach, is not convinced that allowing Estupinan to leave represents the best option. According to Calciomercato.com, the Portuguese tactician has personally requested that any talks regarding the player’s departure be put on hold pending further assessment.

The defender returned to the club’s Milanello training base on 24 July but did not feature in the pre-season friendly against Celtic on Saturday. He is expected to travel with the squad to Australia, where Amorim intends to take a closer look at him in training and match situations before determining whether he remains part of the plans for the 2026-27 campaign.

First-season struggles and valuation

Estupinan joined the Rossoneri last summer in a deal worth approximately €19 million including bonuses. His debut season in Serie A proved challenging, yielding just 19 league appearances as he struggled to displace 20-year-old Davide Bartesaghi in the left-back pecking order.

Despite these struggles, Amorim appears willing to grant the Ecuador international an opportunity to prove his worth. Should Milan ultimately decide to sell, they will reportedly demand a fee in the region of €15 million to €16 million. This would represent a financial loss on the initial investment but would provide Amorim with funds to reshape the squad according to his tactical preferences.

The coming weeks in Australia will prove decisive for Estupinan’s future. His performances during the tour will determine whether he remains at San Siro to compete with Bartesaghi or completes a move to Villa Park before the transfer window closes.

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• AC Milan

The teenage forward converted a penalty shortly after the interval and added a second header seven minutes later to cancel out first-half strikes from Camilo Duran and James Forrest. The result offers Ruben Amorim encouragement from his squad depth, though concern surrounds new defender Mario Gila, who limped off just 23 minutes into his debut.

Rossoneri rally from sluggish start

Milan entered the fixture at contrasting stages of preparation to their hosts. While Celtic concluded their summer schedule ahead of next weekend’s Scottish Premiership opener against Dundee, this marked Milan’s first stadium outing of pre-season with nearly a month remaining until Serie A commences.

The disparity showed early as Celtic seized a two-goal advantage before the half-hour. Duran opened the scoring in the 11th minute, before supplying Forrest for the second in the 28th minute against a Milan defence featuring Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia and Strahinja Pavlovic.

Amorim altered his approach at the break, introducing eight substitutes including Gila, Samuel Chukwueze and Youssouf Fofana. Only goalkeeper Lorenzo Torriani, wing-back Davide Bartesaghi and midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek continued beyond the interval.

Youth shines amid absentees

Milan’s selection reflected the continued absence of senior internationals following the 2026 World Cup. Mike Maignan, Adrien Rabiot, Luka Modric, Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic remained unavailable, prompting Amorim to deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation incorporating teenagers Christian Comotto, Lorenzo Ossola and Andrej Kostic from the outset.

Camarda’s introduction transformed the contest. The 19-year-old halved the deficit from the penalty spot two minutes after the restart, then nodded home Chukwueze’s delivery to level proceedings by the 52nd minute.

Gila’s withdrawal through injury tempered the recovery, however, cutting short the defender’s first appearance after just 23 minutes on the pitch.

Divergent paths ahead

The fixture served as Celtic’s final rehearsal before competitive action resumes. The hosts fielded a strong eleven including Kieran Tierney, Callum McGregor and Forrest, reflecting their advanced readiness compared to visitors still assembling their senior contingent.

For Milan, the draw opens a lengthy pre-season schedule that will test Amorim’s tactical flexibility while World Cup participants gradually filter back into the group.

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The Ballon d’Or winner faced a significant decision regarding his future after the Rossoneri failed to qualify for the Champions League. Rather than ending his tenure at the club, Modric revealed that the setback actually motivated him to continue. He explained that he could not let his Milan adventure finish on that disappointing note and wants to help the team recover from a campaign that fell short of expectations.

Modric: ‘Desire to bounce back is immense’

Speaking to the club’s official channels, Modric expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. “I’m thrilled to continue to be part of AC Milan, where you’ve made me feel welcomed and loved since the very first day,” he said.

“After a season below our expectations, the desire to bounce back is immense. A new season and a new challenge await us; a project I believe in and one that truly motivates me.”

New coach convinced midfielder to stay

The extension follows direct talks with new head coach Ruben Amorim, who has replaced Max Allegri in the dugout. Amorim confirmed he spoke with Modric to persuade him to remain part of the squad for the upcoming campaign, and the conversation appears to have been decisive.

Modric added: “I’m ready to give everything once again for this shirt, and I’m so proud to keep wearing these colours. I can’t wait to return to San Siro and hear your roar.”

The new contract means Modric will remain at the club until shortly before his 42nd birthday. He will be expected to play a key role as Milan attempt to secure a return to Europe’s premier club competition.

The Ballon d’Or winner will earn a reported €3.5 million net per season plus performance-related bonuses. He will continue to wear the Number 14 jersey as he embarks on his second campaign with the Rossoneri.

Debut Campaign and Injury

Modrić joined Milan in the summer of 2025 after departing Real Madrid, where he spent 13 years winning multiple Champions League titles. During his debut season in Serie A, he made 37 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing three assists.

His availability was briefly curtailed by a fractured cheekbone sustained in an accidental collision with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli, though the veteran returned ahead of schedule to bolster the team’s push for European qualification.

Rebuilding Under New Management

The extension represents a significant coup for new head coach Ruben Amorim, who faces the challenge of restoring Milan to the Champions League after the club finished fifth last term. That shortfall triggered a comprehensive overhaul, with predecessor Massimiliano Allegri departing alongside sporting director Igli Tare, technical director Geoffrey Moncada and CEO Giorgio Furlani.

Modrić had admitted uncertainty over whether to continue playing, having considered retirement or a potential backroom role at former club Real Madrid. However, the midfielder elected to prolong his career in Italy, where he will provide invaluable experience as Amorim attempts to guide the club back to Europe’s elite competition.

The playmaker developed through Dinamo Zagreb’s academy before establishing himself in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur. He has maintained a lifelong affinity for Milan, having previously cited admiration for club legends including fellow Croatian Zvonimir Boban.

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• AC Milan

Ruben Amorim’s reign as Milan head coach began with a dominant 7-0 victory over the club’s youth side Milan Futuro in an extended training exercise. The Portuguese tactician, who succeeded Max Allegri earlier this summer, used the 90-minute contest primarily to assess fitness levels and tactical understanding rather than to simulate competitive match conditions.

The Rossoneri led 2-0 at the interval before adding five further goals against increasingly youthful opposition after the break. Seven different players found the net, providing scattered positives throughout the squad. Samuel Chukwueze, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Francesco Camarda all converted their chances, while Youssouf Fofana, Lorenzo Ossola, Strahinja Pavlovic and teenage prospect Andrej Kostic also registered.

Tactical positioning and squad notes

The fixture offered an early glimpse of Amorim’s structural thinking, with Nigeria international Chukwueze deployed on the right flank of midfield in a 3-4-2-1 formation. This deployment indicates the new coach may utilise the winger in a deeper, wider role this season rather than as a direct attacking threat.

Several senior players involved are reportedly available for transfer but used the opportunity to press their claims. Loftus-Cheek and Fofana both found the net as they seek to convince the new regime of their value. Meanwhile, Kostic—signed for the youth sector but training with the senior squad this summer—continued his integration with a goal against the Futuro outfit.

Milan Futuro, which will compete in Serie D this term following relegation from Serie C, introduced younger players as the match progressed, contributing to the one-sided nature of the second period.

Celtic challenge awaits

While the result carried little competitive significance, it served as a useful conditioning exercise ahead of more rigorous tests. Milan’s first genuine pre-season friendly takes place on Saturday when they travel to face Celtic.

That encounter will provide a far sterner examination of Amorim’s methods and offer clearer indications of which squad members feature in his plans for the forthcoming campaign.

Speaking to media including Gazzetta dello Sport after France conceded four goals before half-time in the loss to England, Rabiot expressed frustration at the squad’s approach. “A disgraceful first half, I saw unacceptable behaviour,” he stated. He added that he had “never witnessed” such conduct from certain players previously, noting the team wasted their final opportunity to impress.

Rabiot acknowledged lingering disappointment from the semi-final defeat against Spain, but stressed the team still had obligations. “We had a job to finish,” he said. The interval discussion focused on restoring pride, which produced a markedly improved second period, though the damage had already been done.

The midfielder also offered support for manager Didier Deschamps, insisting the result did not diminish the coach’s achievements with the national team.

Milan Return

Rabiot now prepares for his second campaign at San Siro and confirmed he will delay discussions with new coach Ruben Amorim until after his holiday. “I’m starting again with Milan, of course,” he said, explaining that conversations with the Portuguese tactician would follow his break. He described the upcoming rest as “well-deserved” after “truly difficult days mentally.”

The 30-year-old prioritised international duty over club matters during the tournament, preferring to avoid distractions while focusing on World Cup commitments.

Coaching Changes

Rabiot’s return to Milan coincides with significant changes at the club. The Rossoneri sacked Massimiliano Allegri after failing to qualify for the Champions League in 2025-26, replacing him with former Manchester United boss Amorim.

Allegri, who coached Rabiot at Juventus and pushed for his signing at Milan last summer, has since secured a three-year contract with Napoli. Amorim now faces the task of revitalising a squad that includes Rabiot as a central midfield figure.

• Ruben Amorim accepts AC Milan manager position on two-year deal
• Manchester United avoid full £16.7 million severance payment
• Portuguese coach replaces Massimiliano Allegri at San Siro
• Rossoneri finished fifth in Serie A last season
• Amazon documentary confirmed for United next campaign

Ruben Amorim is set to return to the dugout. The Portuguese tactician has agreed to become the new head coach at AC Milan. This move brings good news for his former employers at Manchester United.

The 41-year-old has signed a contract with the Italian giants that runs for two years. There is also an option to extend for a third year. He takes over from Massimiliano Allegri, who left the club recently.

Amorim lost his job at Old Trafford in January. His departure came with a compensation package worth £16.7 million for him and his backroom staff. However, United will now save a large sum of this money. When a manager finds new work, clubs do not pay the full severance amount.

AC Milan had a disappointing campaign last term. They finished fifth in the Serie A table. This result means they will not play in the Champions League next season. The poor performance led to a major clearout at the San Siro.

Several top officials have left the club. Sporting director Igli Tare, chief executive Giorgio Furlani, and technical director Geoffrey Moncada all departed. Now Allegri has followed them out of the door.

Milan are planning a big rebuild. Reports suggest they want Pedro Ferreira to join the new setup. Ferreira currently works as head of recruitment at Nottingham Forest. He shares the same nationality as Amorim.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have announced another financial boost. The club will feature in an Amazon “All or Nothing” documentary next season. The streaming giant will pay a record access fee to film at the club.

Cameras will follow the team from the start of pre-season. The show will focus on the men’s first team under Michael Carrick. It will also cover the women’s team and the academy.

Negotiations for the series began while Amorim was still manager. However, the club decided to wait. Now they feel the time is right to open their doors to the cameras.

Toby Craig is the chief communications officer at United. He spoke about the project. “Now is the right time to open our doors, so that for the first time our fans around the world can see behind the scenes of a club which means so much to so many people,” he said.

• Michael Carrick agrees terms to become Manchester United’s full-time head coach
• The 44-year-old will sign an initial two-year contract with an option for a further 12 months
• Official announcement expected within 48 hours, though Sunday’s clash with Nottingham Forest may come too soon
• Carrick has secured Champions League qualification for United after taking over from sacked Ruben Amorim in January

Manchester United have struck a deal with Michael Carrick to take charge as the club’s permanent manager. The agreement comes after a dramatic turnaround at Old Trafford since the former midfielder stepped into the role on an interim basis four months ago.

Legal teams are currently finalising the paperwork. The Red Devils hope to announce the appointment formally within the next two days. However, there is a chance the official confirmation could miss Sunday’s home fixture against Nottingham Forest, which marks the final match of the season at Old Trafford.

Carrick, aged 44, will put pen to paper on a two-year deal that includes an option for an extra year. His appointment follows a recommendation from chief executive officer Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox to the club’s owners, Ineos, which has received the green light from the hierarchy.

The former England international inherited a difficult situation in January when Ruben Amorim lost his job. At that point, a top-four finish seemed impossible. Yet Carrick has masterminded a remarkable recovery, lifting United to third place in the Premier League table. Avoiding defeat against Forest on Sunday will guarantee their spot in next season’s Champions League.

The dressing room has thrown its full support behind Carrick. Key figures including Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and Casemiro have publicly backed him for the permanent role. This unity has translated to impressive results on the pitch, with victories against Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea highlighting his tenure.

Initially, United’s search for a new boss remained open. Several high-profile names were considered, including Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti and Luis Enrique. However, Tuchel extended his contract with the Football Association, Ancelotti committed to Brazil, and Enrique agreed fresh terms with Paris Saint-Germain. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner also became unavailable due to a dispute with his club’s ownership.

Carrick’s only major setback came with a home defeat to Leeds United in April, where his team selection drew criticism. Nevertheless, his ability to rally the squad for crucial wins against direct rivals for European places proved decisive. The board eventually concluded that removing Carrick posed a greater risk than keeping him.

Time will tell whether this proves the correct long-term decision. For now, United supporters will welcome the stability of a manager who has already delivered Champions League football against the odds.

• Michael Carrick has collected the most Premier League points since taking temporary charge of Manchester United in January
• Advanced metrics reveal United are significantly overperforming their expected goals statistics
• Three United forwards rank among the division’s most clinical finishers during this period
• Historical data from Aston Villa and Sunderland shows similar early-season overperformance often corrects itself
• The club’s owners must decide whether to appoint Carrick permanently or seek an alternative candidate

Michael Carrick appears to have performed a miracle at Old Trafford. Since the former midfielder became temporary boss in January, Manchester United have climbed to the top of the form table. They have collected more points than any other Premier League club. On the surface, giving Carrick the permanent job seems like an easy decision.

However, a closer look at the numbers tells a different story. While results have been excellent, the statistics suggest this success cannot last forever.

United’s attack has been very efficient under Carrick. Only Arsenal have a better goal difference, and no team has scored more goals during this time. But this success hides a problem with chance creation. Eight other teams are actually making better scoring opportunities according to expected goals data.

United are currently converting shots at a rate that is too high to maintain. They have scored seven goals more than an average team would score from the same chances. This is the biggest difference in the league. Only Nottingham Forest, who are also playing well under Vitor Pereira, have a larger gap between their expected and actual goals.

Three United players are among the league’s six most clinical finishers since January. Matheus Cunha is second only to Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White in conversion rate. Benjamin Sesko and Casemiro have also been scoring at an unusually high rate. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens has also played better than expected, saving nearly three more goals than statistics suggest he should have.

Such accurate finishing rarely continues for a full season. When these numbers return to normal, United may struggle to win matches.

Comparing Carrick’s time with Ruben Amorim’s earlier period shows tactical changes. The Portuguese coach preferred more possession and shots, while Carrick’s team takes two fewer shots per game and allows slightly more chances. Amorim actually left with the team in sixth place, level with Chelsea and only three points behind Liverpool.

The danger is confusing short-term luck with long-term improvement. History shows that teams who control expected goals eventually achieve lasting success. Teams who rely on excellent finishing usually fall back down the table. Earlier this season, Aston Villa and Sunderland performed better than their statistics suggested through spectacular long-range shooting and great goalkeeping. Both teams have since dropped down the table as these performances returned to normal.

This does not mean Carrick should not get the job. New players this summer could help him improve the team’s tactics. However, if performances stay at current levels next season, the good results will likely disappear. The club might need to find another manager before the season ends.

The owners must therefore look beyond the points total. They need to decide if Carrick has the vision to build a dominant team, or if his time in charge is just a temporary improvement that hides deeper problems.