Ismael Bennacer has been excluded from AC Milan’s inaugural Champions League match against Liverpool on Tuesday night following surgery on his right calf.
Milan resumed play after the international break with a decisive 4-0 victory against Venezia at San Siro on Saturday, marking their inaugural win of the emerging season following two draws and one loss prior to the hiatus in domestic competition.
However, Arne Slot’s Liverpool, reeling after an unexpected defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, will present a markedly different challenge.
The Serie A club has announced that they will have to strategise without Algerian sensation Bennacer for a duration of up to four months.
AC Milan has announced that Ismael Bennacer underwent surgery in Finland this morning, according to a club statement.
The procedure on his right calf was conducted by Dr. Lasse Lempainen. The anticipated duration of his rehabilitation is four months.
Bennacer subsequently announced on Instagram that his operation was successful.
“Greetings to all.” He reported that his calf operation this morning was successful, accompanied by a photograph of him smiling and giving a thumbs-up from his hospital bed.
“I appreciate all your messages and support, which inspire me to return promptly.” I shall dedicate all my efforts to return more resilient. We shall meet shortly on the pitch.
Liverpool has announced a 23-member travelling squad to northern Italy, featuring Federico Chiesa.
The Italian winger may debut for the Reds, having been excluded from the team against Forest.
Liverpool’s travelling squad: Alisson, Gomez, Endo, Van Dijk, Konate, Diaz, Szoboszlai, Nunez, Mac Allister, Salah, Chiesa, Jones, Gakpo, Jota, Tsimikas, Robertson, Gravenberch, Jaros, Kelleher, Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Morton, Bradley.
