Ecuador Boss Gallardo Announces Estupinan Has Suffered Knee Injury, AC Milan Sweat Over Defender’s Fitness

FolioPitch.com – 06 October 2026 | In a concerning development for AC Milan, Ecuador boss Gallardo announces Estupinan has suffered knee injury, casting doubt over the defender‘s availability for the Rossoneri’s crucial upcoming fixtures. The announcement came following Ecuador’s penalty shootout defeat to Panama in the Kirin Cup third-place match in Tokyo, a game in which Estupinan was notably absent from the squad.

Ecuador manager Marcelo Gallardo revealed the news in his post-match press conference, stating, “Pervis Estupinan has a sprained knee.” The statement, reported by journalist Rogelio Arosemena, has sparked anxiety within the Milan camp as they await further medical assessments. Estupinan, who joined Milan in the summer, did not feature in the match and was not even named on the bench at the New National Stadium, nor did he participate in the team’s final training session.

The timing of the injury is particularly troubling for Milan, who are preparing for a grueling October schedule that includes nine matches in 28 days across Serie A and the Europa League. The demanding run will test the squad’s depth, especially in the full-back positions where Estupinan was expected to play a key role. As Ecuador boss Gallardo announces Estupinan has suffered knee injury, Milan’s medical staff will be eager to determine the severity of the sprain once the player returns to Italy.

Initial reports suggest that a complete assessment will require further tests upon his return to Milan. The club will be hoping that the injury is minor and that Estupinan can quickly return to action. However, the lack of immediate clarity has left fans and coaching staff alike on edge. The defender’s performances had already drawn some criticism, and this setback could further impact his integration into the team.

For manager Ruben Amorim, the news is far from ideal. Milan are set to face a challenging series of fixtures, and the availability of key players will be crucial. The full-back positions are particularly important in Amorim’s system, which relies on energetic wing-backs to provide width and defensive cover. With Estupinan potentially sidelined, Milan may need to rely on alternative options or adjust their tactical approach.

The injury also raises questions about player workload management, as Estupinan had been on international duty with Ecuador. The Kirin Cup, a friendly tournament, now appears to have come at a cost for Milan. The club’s medical team will conduct a thorough evaluation, and the results will determine whether Estupinan faces a short-term absence or a longer layoff.

In the meantime, Milan’s supporters will be anxiously awaiting updates. The Rossoneri have high hopes for the season, and maintaining a fully fit squad is essential to their ambitions. As Ecuador boss Gallardo announces Estupinan has suffered knee injury, the focus now shifts to the player’s recovery and Milan’s ability to cope without him.

In conclusion, the knee injury to Pervis Estupinan is a significant blow for AC Milan, especially with a congested fixture list on the horizon. The club will hope for a positive diagnosis, but the coming days will be telling. Milan’s depth and resilience will be tested, and how they navigate this period could shape their season. For now, all eyes are on the medical reports and Estupinan’s potential return timeline.