AC Milan will take off this afternoon from Milan to reach Rotterdam ahead of tomorrow night's first leg of the Champions League playoffs against Feyenoord.
Sergio Conceição will have only 17 outfield players at his disposal, including youngsters Bartesaghi and Camarda, while Bondo, Sottil, Jiménez, and Jović will remain in Milan as they are not included in the UEFA squad list. Injured players Emerson Royal, Florenzi, and Loftus-Cheek, as well as the suspended Musah, will also be absent.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek's problem
Two injuries in two months: the first on December 11 (2-1 against Red Star) in the Champions League, followed by a relapse in the Italian Super Cup final against Inter. Loftus-Cheek remains sidelined, and in today's training session, he worked separately along with newcomer Warren Bondo. Ruben is targeting a return for the match against Verona, scheduled for Saturday night at San Siro, with his condition being monitored day by day.
Beyond this specific case, there is a growing sense within Milan that he is no longer a reliable asset for the team, as he continues to struggle with recurring physical issues.
Could Ruben Loftus-Cheek leave Milan next summer?
In terms of characteristics and tactical concepts, the 29-year-old midfielder is a player that appeals to Sergio Conceição. When in top condition, the Englishman brings intensity, significant physicality, and the ability to drive forward forcefully during transitions.
He is certainly a more vertical player compared to others in the Rossoneri squad. However, these attributes alone are not enough—Milan will consider offers in the summer for the former Chelsea man, who joined the club in 2023 for €15 million plus €3 million in bonuses, writes Calciomercato.com.
