Key Takeaways:
- Rafael Leao has been ruled out for Milan’s upcoming fixture against Bologna
- The Portuguese forward has not played since sustaining a calf injury during the Coppa Italia tie with Bari on 17 August
- Christopher Nkunku is poised to make his Milan debut from the bench against Bologna, with an estimated 30-minute involvement
Team Selection: Injuries and Returns
According to sources close to SportingPedia, Rafael Leao is set to miss AC Milan’s forthcoming Serie A encounter with Bologna. The club’s Portuguese attacker continues his recovery from a calf injury suffered on 17 August in a Coppa Italia fixture against Bari, and has been working individually in training since. This rehabilitation process is expected to continue today, as Milan remain cautious with his return. With only 48 hours left before Sunday’s clash, the likelihood of Leao featuring remains extremely slim.
📰 @lucabianchin7: Rafa Leao is expected to miss Sunday’s match against Bologna! ❌ pic.twitter.com/CbGpF7wPsd
— Milan Posts (@MilanPosts) September 10, 2025
Milan’s medical staff will assess Leao’s progress over the coming two days, but the club is targeting his potential return for the away fixture at Udinese, scheduled for 20 September.
Nkunku Set for First Appearance in Rossoneri Colours
In a positive development for the squad, new arrival Christopher Nkunku is ready to be included for the first time since joining Milan. The ex-Chelsea forward is available for the Bologna match, although he is expected to begin the game on the bench. As Nkunku is not yet at full match fitness, medical staff have indicated he could be limited to approximately 30 minutes of playing time, should he be called upon during the contest.
| Player | Status | Most Recent Appearance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rafael Leao | Unavailable (Injured) | 17 August vs Bari (Coppa Italia) | Recovering from calf injury, training separately |
| Christopher Nkunku | Available (Bench) | Yet to debut for Milan | Expected to play up to 30 minutes |
