KEY POINTS
- Ruben Loftus-Cheek suffered a fracture of the alveolar bone during AC Milan’s league match against Parma.
- The injury occurred after a violent collision with the opposing goalkeeper during the second half of the game.
- Medical reports indicate the midfielder will undergo surgery and faces a lengthy rehabilitation period.
AC Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek is set to undergo surgery after sustaining a serious facial injury on Sunday. The English international suffered a fracture of the alveolar bone during a Serie A fixture against Parma. This specific type of injury involves the part of the jaw that supports and holds the tooth sockets. Reports from Italy suggest the surgery is necessary to stabilize the bone and repair the damage.
The incident took place during a high-intensity moment at the San Siro as Milan chased a late equalizer. Loftus-Cheek collided with the Parma goalkeeper, who was attempting to punch the ball clear from a cross. The impact was significant enough to knock several teeth loose and cause immediate swelling. Medical staff rushed onto the pitch to provide treatment before stretchering the midfielder off for further evaluation.
The 30-year-old was immediately transported to a local hospital for diagnostic imaging and specialized consultation. Tests confirmed the structural damage to his jaw, leading to the decision for surgical intervention. Surgeons expect to perform the procedure within the next 48 hours to begin the recovery process. This setback comes at a difficult time for Milan as they navigate a crowded domestic and European schedule.
Club officials have not yet provided a definitive timeline for the midfielder’s return to competitive action. However, medical experts typically suggest that such fractures require several months of healing and rehabilitation. Loftus-Cheek will likely need to wear specialized protective equipment once he is cleared to resume light training. The loss of his physical presence in the midfield represents a major challenge for manager Massimiliano Allegri.
This injury also carries significant implications for Loftus-Cheek’s international career with the England national team. He had been in strong form and was widely considered a candidate for the upcoming World Cup roster. The projected recovery period could potentially end his hopes of participating in the summer tournament in North America. England staff are reportedly in contact with the Milan medical team to monitor his progress.
Milan players and coaching staff expressed their support for their teammate following the 1-0 defeat to Parma. The club released a brief statement confirming the injury while asking for privacy for the player during his recovery. Fans have also flooded social media with messages of encouragement for the former Chelsea star. The team must now look to internal solutions to fill the void in their starting lineup.
