AC Milan rocked as Christopher Nkunku debut delayed and Rafael Leao ruled out again

AC Milan’s ongoing injury struggles have taken another hit with Christopher Nkunku’s debut postponed and Rafael Leao sidelined once again.

The Rossoneri, who have been battling for consistency early in the season, face the prospect of heading into their next Serie A fixture without two of their marquee attackers.

Nkunku, who represents France internationally but is of Congolese heritage, joined the San Siro side this summer in a £36 million switch from Chelsea and has yet to make an appearance for the club.

Leao, meanwhile, whose roots trace back to Angola despite playing for Portugal, remains out of action after sustaining a calf injury in Milan’s 2-0 Coppa Italia victory over Bari.

According to Calciomercato, the 26-year-old was forced to train individually on Tuesday as the club’s medical staff opted against rushing his return to competitive action.

Nkunku, 27, has been steadily increasing his workload since arriving in Milan but is still deemed unfit to start.

The same report suggests the French forward could be included on the bench for Milan’s Serie A clash against Bologna on Sunday, September 14, if he proves his readiness later this week.

Leao’s absence is a major setback for Max Allegri, who had been counting on the winger’s creativity to revitalise Milan’s attacking play.

The Portuguese forward’s recurring fitness issues have further complicated the club’s plans, particularly with Nkunku still easing into full match sharpness.

With the Rossoneri looking to maintain momentum in both Serie A and cup competitions, the unavailability of two players of such calibre underscores the growing strain on the squad’s depth.