Milan Wing-Back Crisis: How Amorim Must Navigate Two Injuries Creating Chaos

FolioPitch.com – 22 October 2026 | AC Milan are facing a mounting tactical dilemma after two injuries creates chaos How Milan and Amorim can deal with wing-back emergency in the heart of their squad. Within the space of just three weeks, the Rossoneri have lost two of their most versatile wide men, forcing manager Ruben Amorim to rethink his entire right-sided approach ahead of a congested fixture list.

The first blow arrived during the international break when Alexis Saelemaekers sustained an ankle problem in training at Milanello. Initial hopes were that rest would resolve the issue, but scans revealed the joint had become destabilised again following previous surgery. The Belgian was forced to go under the knife once more, leaving a significant void on the right flank.

Then, on the eve of the Bournemouth friendly, Samuel Chukwueze reported hip discomfort. A specialist examination was quickly arranged for the Nigerian international, and early indications suggest he faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. With six matches still to play before the mid-November international break, the timing could hardly be worse.

The situation is stark: Milan are without two of their more adaptable players, both capable of operating as wing-backs or wide forwards. Two injuries creates chaos How Milan and Amorim can deal with wing-back emergency is now the central question for the coaching staff, who must find internal solutions or risk being exposed in a crucial run of games.

Internal Solutions: Who Steps Up?

Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system relies heavily on dynamic wing-backs to provide width and defensive cover. With Saelemaekers and Chukwueze unavailable, the Portuguese coach must explore alternatives already within the squad. Options include shifting a full-back inside, promoting a youth player, or adapting a midfielder to the role.

• Alessandro Florenzi – The veteran full-back offers experience but lacks the explosive pace required for a wing-back role in Amorim’s high-intensity setup.
• Davide Calabria – Naturally right-footed, he could fill in, though his defensive instincts often limit his attacking output.
• Yunus Musah – The American midfielder has played wide before and possesses the engine to cover ground, but defensive positioning remains a concern.
• Primavera talents – Milan’s youth academy could provide a stopgap, with several promising wide players pushing for first-team opportunities.

Each option carries risk, and Amorim must weigh short-term needs against long-term development. The coach has already shown willingness to experiment, but the margin for error in Serie A and Europe is slim.

January Transfer Window: A Necessary Intervention?

With two injuries creates chaos How Milan and Amorim can deal with wing-back emergency dominating the agenda, attention inevitably turns to the January transfer window. The club’s recruitment team is reportedly monitoring the market for right-sided wing-backs who could arrive on loan or at a modest fee.

One name that has surfaced is Zachary Athekame, the young Swiss defender currently impressing in the Belgian Pro League. His profile—athletic, aggressive, and comfortable in possession—fits the Amorim mould. However, prising him away mid-season could prove complicated, and Milan’s financial constraints may limit their ability to act decisively.

Alternatively, the Rossoneri could look to Serie A rivals for a temporary fix, though competition and inflated winter prices often make such deals difficult. The club must balance immediate needs with Financial Fair Play considerations, making any move a calculated gamble.

Tactical Adjustments: A Change of Shape?

Amorim is not short of tactical ideas. He could switch to a back four, utilising traditional full-backs and freeing up wide midfielders to attack. This would reduce the reliance on wing-backs but may expose the centre-backs in transition. Another option is a lopsided system, with one flank more defensive and the other more adventurous, compensating for the loss of Saelemaekers and Chukwueze.

The coach’s ability to adapt will be tested severely. Two injuries creates chaos How Milan and Amorim can deal with wing-back emergency is a narrative that will define Milan’s autumn. The upcoming fixtures—including tough league encounters and European nights—will demand resilience and creativity from the entire squad.

Conclusion

Milan’s wing-back emergency is a stern test of squad depth and managerial ingenuity. With Saelemaekers and Chukwueze sidelined, Ruben Amorim must find solutions from within, potentially accelerate January plans, or tweak his system to survive a demanding schedule. The coming weeks will reveal whether the Rossoneri can turn crisis into opportunity, or whether the lack of width becomes a fatal flaw in their season. One thing is certain: two injuries creates chaos How Milan and Amorim can deal with wing-back emergency will be a storyline worth following closely.