After a true ordeal of muscle injuries and unfortunate setbacks, Ruben Loftus-Cheek was able to play a short spell at the end of Milan - Como, proving useful and making an impact during Dele Alli’s sending-off, which was caused by a foul on the Rossoneri midfielder. Now, at a crucial stage of the season—with Milan also facing a key double-header against Inter in the Coppa—Loftus could be an extra weapon for Conceição.
So far, Loftus-Cheek’s unusual and troubled season mirrors the team’s overall trajectory. Physical issues and tactical inconsistencies have kept him out for most of the campaign. As a result, the former Chelsea man has underwhelmed: just 22 appearances across all competitions, totaling a mere 1,029 minutes on the pitch, with zero goals and only one assist in the 6-1 Coppa Italia win over Sassuolo. A stark contrast to his previous season—his first at Milan—when he was a key player under Pioli, as evidenced by his 40 appearances and 10 goals. Goals that could now prove vital in Milan’s Champions League pursuit, as their hopes of securing fourth place heavily depend on him. Among his strengths, his ability to provide balance and physicality stands out in a midfield that desperately needs more depth and solutions, as pointed out by Milannews.it.
Conceição believes in him: He wants the best Loftus-Cheek version...
The Portuguese coach has repeatedly expressed his admiration for the English midfielder, praising him publicly on the eve of the Como match—the game in which Loftus-Cheek returned to action after a long spell on the sidelines. Under Conceição’s management, he had never been available for selection, except for the Supercoppa final against Inter, where he was already struggling with a relapse in the days leading up to the showdown against the Nerazzurri.
What did coach Sergio Conceicao say about Ruben Loftus-Cheek?
"I never had him due to injuries, but now he's at 100%. He’s not yet ready for 90 minutes, but I really like him. He’s a very strong midfielder, makes good runs into the opposition box. Physically, he's a monster, and I hope to have him available for the remainder of the season. Last year, he scored 10 goals—he's a top-quality box-to-box player."
