Leao’s Napoli Absence looms large for AC Milan as star forward Rafael Leão faces an extended period on the sidelines due to a troublesome soleus muscle injury. Head coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed the setback, indicating that Leão is unlikely to feature in the crucial upcoming Serie A clash against Napoli. This injury saga, which began on August 17, 2025, during a Coppa Italia match against Bari, has proven more complicated than initially anticipated, impacting Milan’s attacking prowess.
Leão’s Injury Timeline and Allegri’s Concerns
The initial muscular strain suffered by Rafael Leão during the Coppa Italia match against Bari on August 17, 2025, was initially hoped to be a minor issue. However, the soleus muscle injury has proven to be persistent, leading to a prolonged absence. According to Milanreports.com, the club has been closely monitoring his progress, but the delicate nature of the injury requires a cautious approach.
Massimiliano Allegri addressed the situation in a press conference on September 13, 2025, emphasizing the potential risks associated with rushing Leão back into action. As quoted by Football Italia, Allegri stated, “Leao has a problem with his soleus, which is a very dangerous muscle. We can’t take any risks with him.” This statement highlights the club’s commitment to prioritizing Leão’s long-term health over short-term gains.
Confirmed Absences
Allegri confirmed that Leão will definitely miss the Serie A match against Bologna on Sunday, as reported by M Sports. Furthermore, he is also expected to be unavailable for the subsequent fixture against Udinese. These absences represent a significant blow to AC Milan’s attacking options, particularly given Leão’s importance to the team’s offensive strategy.
Impact on AC Milan’s Attacking Options
Rafael Leão’s absence has already been felt in the opening two Serie A matches, where Milan’s attacking fluidity appeared somewhat diminished. His ability to create scoring opportunities and his directness in attacking the opposition’s defense are key components of Milan’s game plan. Goal.com US notes that Leão’s pace and dribbling skills are particularly difficult to replace.
Furthermore, Leão was forced to withdraw from representing his national team in September due to the injury. This withdrawal underscores the severity of the injury and its impact on Leão’s ability to perform at the highest level. His absence from international duty further compounds the frustration for both the player and the club.
Relying on Other Key Players
While Leão is sidelined, AC Milan will need to rely on other key players such as Estupinan and Pulisic to step up and contribute in attack. Both players are fit and available, and they possess the quality to make a difference. However, replacing Leão’s unique skillset and impact on the team will be a significant challenge, according to CNA.al.
Cautious Recovery and Potential Return
AC Milan is adopting a cautious approach to Leão’s recovery, prioritizing his long-term fitness over a rushed return. The club’s medical staff is closely monitoring his progress, and they will only clear him to play when they are confident that he is fully fit and able to avoid further complications. Yardbarker.com reports that the medical team is employing a range of treatment methods to aid his recovery.
Allegri has indicated that the team is targeting the match against Napoli for Leão’s potential return to action. This fixture is seen as a crucial one for Milan, and having Leão available would significantly boost their chances of securing a positive result. However, Allegri has also emphasized that Leão’s return will depend on his progress in the coming weeks.
Napoli Match as a Target
The Napoli match is a strategically important game for AC Milan, making Leão’s potential availability a key factor. The team’s performance against a strong opponent like Napoli could set the tone for the rest of the season, and Leão’s presence would undoubtedly enhance their chances of success. The coaching staff is hopeful that he will be ready to contribute, but they remain cautious about his recovery timeline.
Conclusion
Rafael Leão’s injury setback represents a significant challenge for AC Milan. His absence impacts the team’s attacking options and places greater responsibility on other key players. The club’s cautious approach to his recovery reflects a commitment to his long-term fitness, with the Napoli match tentatively marked for his potential return. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Leão will be fit to play a part in that important fixture, and whether Milan can effectively navigate his absence in the meantime.
