Gabbia Stretchered Off in Tears as Milan Forced into Early Change Against Sassuolo

FolioPitch.com – 12 October 2026 | In a distressing turn of events at the Mapei Stadium, Milan forced into early change against Sassuolo as Gabbia stretchered off in tears during Sunday evening’s Serie A encounter. The defender’s first start of the 2026-27 season lasted just over 15 minutes before a suspected flexor injury left him unable to continue, casting a shadow over the Rossoneri’s visit to Reggio Emilia.

The incident occurred in the 16th minute when Gabbia attempted to dispossess Sassuolo’s Armand Lauriente near the touchline on the left wing. Stretching for the ball, the centre-back immediately went down and remained on the turf, visibly in agony. Referee waved play on as no foul was committed, but it quickly became clear that Gabbia could not continue. After several minutes of treatment, he was stretchered off in tears, replaced by Koni De Winter in the 20th minute. The emotional scene underscored the severity of the blow for a player who had waited patiently for his opportunity.

This was Gabbia’s first start of the campaign, having made two substitute appearances earlier in the season before a minor ankle issue sidelined him in September. He had been deployed in a back four alongside Mario Gila at right-back, Pervis Estupinan at left-back, and Strahinja Pavlovic as his centre-back partner. The defensive reshuffle forced coach Ruben Amorim to alter his plans prematurely, with De Winter thrust into the action. The early change disrupted Milan’s rhythm, and Sassuolo looked to capitalise on the visitors’ reorganisation.

The injury adds to Milan’s growing concerns in defence. With Gabbia now facing a spell on the sidelines, Amorim must rely on his squad depth. De Winter, who joined the club in the summer, will likely see increased minutes, while Pavlovic and Gila may need to shoulder more responsibility. The medical team will assess Gabbia in the coming days to determine the extent of the damage, but initial indications suggest a flexor problem that could rule him out for several weeks.

For Gabbia, the timing is particularly cruel. After working his way back to fitness, the 26-year-old had hoped to cement a place in the starting XI. Instead, he watched the remainder of the match from the dressing room, visibly emotional as he was carried off. The image of a tearful Gabbia being stretchered away will resonate with Milan fans, who have seen the academy graduate battle through adversity before.

Milan forced into early change against Sassuolo as Gabbia stretchered off in tears, and the incident inevitably shifted the momentum of the game. Sassuolo, buoyed by the disruption, pressed forward with greater urgency. Lauriente, who was involved in the incident, continued to pose a threat on the flank. Milan’s defence, now featuring De Winter, had to adapt quickly to the pace of the Serie A clash.

The Rossoneri’s medical staff will conduct further tests, but the early diagnosis of a flexor issue is concerning. Such injuries can vary in severity, from minor strains to more serious tears. Gabbia’s history of ankle problems earlier in the season may also be a factor in his recovery timeline. The club has not yet released an official statement, but sources close to the player indicate that he is devastated by the setback.

Amorim, speaking after the match, expressed his sympathy for Gabbia and acknowledged the challenge of losing a player so early. “It’s never easy when you lose a defender in the first 20 minutes,” he said. “Matteo was distraught, and we all feel for him. We have to wait for the scans, but we will support him through his recovery.” The coach also praised De Winter’s composure in stepping into a difficult situation.

Milan forced into early change against Sassuolo as Gabbia stretchered off in tears, and the substitution undoubtedly affected the team’s tactical setup. The back four had to reorganise, with Gila and Estupinan adjusting their positions. Sassuolo exploited the uncertainty, creating several chances before Milan regained their footing. The match ultimately ended in a hard-fought result, but the focus post-match was firmly on Gabbia’s health.

This injury could have broader implications for Milan’s season. With a busy fixture list ahead, including domestic and European commitments, squad rotation is crucial. The loss of Gabbia for any length of time puts additional strain on the defensive unit. Youngsters may be called upon, or Amorim might explore the transfer market for reinforcements. However, the club’s immediate priority is Gabbia’s well-being.

In conclusion, Milan forced into early change against Sassuolo as Gabbia stretchered off in tears, a moment that overshadowed the match and left fans and teammates deeply concerned. The defender’s tears were a stark reminder of the physical and emotional toll of professional football. As Milan await further medical updates, the football community sends its best wishes to Gabbia for a swift and full recovery. The Rossoneri will need to rally together in his absence, but for now, all thoughts are with the injured player.