AC Milan Injury Crisis Deepens Ahead of Derby della Madonnina as Eight Players Face Sideline

FolioPitch.com – 28 October 2026 | AC Milan are staring down the barrel of a full-blown squad emergency as the Derby della Madonnina approaches, with Sky reporting a crisis before the derby – Milan’s injury list up to eight. The Rossoneri, already navigating a gruelling October schedule, have seen their treatment room overflow at the worst possible moment, leaving coach Ruben Amorim with precious few options for the high-stakes clash against city rivals Inter.

The latest bulletin confirms that Matteo Gabbia, Alexis Saelemaekers and Samuel Chukwueze are all facing extended spells on the sidelines, with each expected to be out for a few months. Their absence strips Milan of defensive solidity, wing thrust and attacking unpredictability in one fell swoop. It is a triple blow that would test any squad, let alone one already light on depth.

Beyond the long-term casualties, Milan are also sweating on the fitness of Adrien Rabiot, Diego Moreira and Mario Gila. Rabiot and Moreira are both nursing muscle injuries, while Gila is struggling with an ankle problem. All three remain hopeful of featuring in the derby this weekend, and the medical staff are prepared to make ‘every effort’ to recover them. However, club sources indicate that no risks will be taken, given the squad is already stretched to breaking point.

The midfield has been hit particularly hard, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek sidelined by a muscle tear. The Englishman’s powerful runs and physical presence have been a key weapon for Amorim, and his absence leaves a significant void in the engine room. Goalkeeper Pietro Terracciano is also out with a muscle tear, further depleting the options available to the coaching staff.

As Sky’s report makes clear, the situation has deteriorated to the point where Amorim is being forced to ‘ration’ minutes across his squad. In some cases, the caution is understandable – managing workloads to prevent further breakdowns. Yet it also highlights the chronic lack of depth that has plagued the Rossoneri, a concern that has been voiced by observers throughout the campaign. The crisis before the derby – Milan’s injury list up to eight – is not merely a short-term headache; it is a stark illustration of the fragility within the squad.

The timing could hardly be worse. The Derby della Madonnina is a fixture that can define a season, and Milan will need every available body to compete against an Inter side that has shown few signs of weakness. With eight players potentially unavailable, Amorim may be forced to field a makeshift lineup, relying on youth-team graduates or players operating out of position. The tactical flexibility that has been a hallmark of his tenure will be tested to its limits.

Milan’s medical team will continue to monitor the hopeful trio closely in the coming days, but the club’s stance is clear: they will not jeopardise long-term fitness for a single result. It is a pragmatic approach, yet one that could leave the Rossoneri dangerously exposed on derby day. The crisis before the derby – Milan’s injury list up to eight – has become the dominant narrative in the build-up, overshadowing tactical preparations and transfer speculation alike.

For the fans, there is a sense of frustration and anxiety. October was always going to be a demanding month, but the sheer volume of injuries has turned a difficult period into a potential crisis. The squad’s lack of depth was a known concern, and now it is being laid bare for all to see. The hope is that the returning players can be managed carefully and that the fringe members can step up when called upon.

In conclusion, AC Milan’s injury crisis ahead of the derby is a serious test of the club’s resilience and squad planning. The crisis before the derby – Milan’s injury list up to eight – underscores the need for reinforcements and better injury management going forward. While the Rossoneri will fight with whatever resources they have, the outcome of the derby may hinge on who is available rather than who is on form. Amorim and his staff must find a way to navigate this storm, or risk seeing their season derailed before it has truly begun.