AC Milan’s Saelemaekers Out 5-6 Months After Ankle Surgery: Recovery Timeline Extended

FolioPitch.com – 14 October 2026 | AC Milan have confirmed that Alexis Saelemaekers underwent successful ankle surgery, but the recovery period is longer than initially feared. According to MilanNews, the Belgian winger is now expected to be sidelined for around 5-6 months, a significant blow for the Rossoneri. This MN Longer than expected Saelemaekers expected to be out for around 5-6 months news comes as a major setback for Stefano Pioli’s squad, who had hoped to have the player back in around four months.

The surgery, performed by Professor Gino Kerkhoffs, was deemed a success, which means the 24-year-old can now begin his rehabilitation. However, the extended timeline means he is unlikely to return before March, with the club targeting a return to training in the spring. Internally, there is hope that he can recover in time for the business end of the season, but the medical staff will not rush him back to avoid risking further damage.

Extended Absence a Blow for Milan

Saelemaekers has been a key player for Milan since joining from Anderlecht in 2020. His versatility on the wing and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively have made him a valuable asset for Pioli. His absence will leave a void in the squad, especially with the busy fixture list ahead. The Rossoneri are competing on multiple fronts, including Serie A and the Champions League, and will need to cope without one of their most dynamic players.

The initial prognosis of four months was already a setback, but the updated timeframe of 5-6 months is a bitter pill to swallow. As reported, MN Longer than expected Saelemaekers expected to be out for around 5-6 months, the club must now plan for the long term without him. This could prompt the management to explore the transfer market for a temporary replacement, although the club has depth in wide areas with the likes of Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic, and Samuel Chukwueze.

Hope for an Early Return

Despite the grim outlook, there is a glimmer of hope. Professor Gino Kerkhoffs also performed surgery on Santiago Gimenez’s ankle last season, and the Mexican returned about a month earlier than expected. This precedent suggests that the 5-6 month estimate is not set in stone. The medical team will monitor Saelemaekers closely, and if his recovery goes smoothly, he could potentially return sooner.

However, the club is keen not to rush him back prematurely. The priority is to ensure he fully recovers and avoids any recurrence of the injury. Saelemaekers himself is said to be determined to work hard and return as soon as possible, but he understands the importance of a careful rehabilitation process.

Impact on Milan’s Season

Milan’s season could be significantly affected by this long-term absence. Saelemaekers offers a unique blend of energy and tactical discipline that is hard to replace. His ability to press high and track back is crucial to Pioli’s system. Without him, the team may need to adjust their approach, perhaps relying more on the attacking flair of Leao and Pulisic, but sacrificing some defensive solidity on the flanks.

Moreover, the timing of the injury is unfortunate, as it coincides with a crucial period in the season. The Rossoneri will face tough opponents in Serie A and Europe, and squad rotation will be key. The lack of Saelemaekers’ options could force Pioli to use younger players or adapt his formation. It also increases the pressure on the remaining wingers to stay fit and in form.

In the broader context, this injury news is a reminder of the physical toll of modern football. The congested calendar and high-intensity playing style contribute to such injuries, and clubs must manage their squads carefully. Milan’s medical staff will be under scrutiny to ensure Saelemaekers’ recovery is handled optimally.

Conclusion

The extended absence of Alexis Saelemaekers is a significant blow for AC Milan. While the successful surgery is a positive step, the 5-6 month timeline means the club will be without a key player for the majority of the season. As the MN Longer than expected Saelemaekers expected to be out for around 5-6 months reports indicate, the situation is far from ideal. However, with the precedent of Santiago Gimenez’s early return, there is hope that Saelemaekers could defy the odds and come back sooner. In the meantime, Milan must adapt and find solutions to cope without him. The coming months will test the squad’s depth and resilience, but with careful management, they can navigate this challenging period.