Milan crippled after the international break

The Rossoneri have been hit hard at the start of the season, losing two of their best players — Christian Pulisic and Adrien Rabiot — while Alexis Saelemaekers is also doubtful after picking up an injury while on duty with Belgium. Pervis Estupinan returned injured as well after international duty, but unlike Pulisic, Rabiot, and to some extent Saelemaekers, the Ecuadorian defender is expected to be available to Max Allegri for the match against Fiorentina. Pulisic’s injury is a serious one, and Milan are reportedly furious with the U.S. national team coach, who forced the winger to play in a friendly against Australia — the match in which he got hurt. In the best-case scenario, Pulisic could return to the pitch in about a month.

The situation with Rabiot is slightly better. The French midfielder has a calf strain, and will be re-evaluated in 10 days’ time, meaning that he will be out for at least the next two games, possibly up to a month. Saelemaekers could still be included in the squad for the Fiorentina match. Rafa Leao remains a mystery. Allegedly, Portugal sent him back to Italy early because he wasn’t in optimal physical condition. That naturally raises the question — why was he called up at all? There are growing suspicions that Leao hasn’t fully recovered and is still nursing an injury, which is affecting his performances.

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Pulisic’s absence could open the door for Nkunku. The French international took advantage of Kylian Mbappe’s absence to start for France and even scored. Now, Milan expect him to do the same wearing their badge. Rabiot’s injury, despite how crucial he is to Allegri’s tactical balance, is less problematic since Loftus-Cheek is a capable replacement who can complete the midfield trio alongside Modrić and Fofana.