Rafael Leão Sidelined by Injury as Milan Face Torino in Season Opener

Rafael Leão will sit out AC Milan’s first Serie A match of the 2026-27 campaign, a development that adds another twist to a season already marked by upheaval. The Portuguese winger’s absence was confirmed by head coach Ruben Amorim on Saturday, who stressed that the reason is injury rather than any transfer speculation. With the Rossoneri travelling to Turin for a 19:45 BST kickoff, Amorim’s debut in Italy now comes without one of his most dynamic attackers.

Why Leão’s injury matters for Milan

Leão’s pace and eye for goal were central to Milan’s attacking blueprint last season. His sidelining forces Amorim to look elsewhere for firepower, and the 19‑year‑old Alphadjo Cisse is being touted as a possible starter. Cisse, who has impressed in the Primavera side, could get his first senior Serie A minutes against Torino, a chance that may accelerate his integration into the first team.

New faces and familiar names in the starting XI

The line‑up that Amorim is expected to field reflects a blend of new signings and returning players. Club‑record signing Gonçalo Ramos is set to lead the attack, partnered by Mario Gila at centre‑back. In midfield, Luka Modric is likely to start alongside Yunus Musah, who has been recalled after a loan spell at Atalanta. The defensive trio of Gila, Davide Gabbia and Marko Pavlović will sit behind goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

Milan’s broader overhaul

Beyond the squad, Milan have undergone a wholesale change in management. After the 2025‑26 season ended, the club dismissed Massimiliano Allegri, Igli Tare, Geoffrey Moncada and Giorgio Furlani. Ruben Amorim arrived as head coach, bringing a fresh tactical philosophy, while a new senior management team has been installed to support his vision. The Rossoneri finished outside the Serie A top four last season, a disappointment that has amplified the pressure on Amorim to deliver immediate results.

Torino’s setup and what Milan face

Torino line‑up is expected to follow a 3‑4‑2‑1 shape, with Mascardi in goal, a back line of Coco, Ismajli and Comuzzo, and a midfield quartet of Pedersen, Fitz‑Jim, Gineitis and Cacciamani. Vlasic and Casadei will operate in the half‑spaces, while Simeone leads the attack. Torino’s disciplined defensive shape could test Milan’s reshuffled forward line, especially with Leão unavailable.

Key absences for Milan

In addition to Leão, several high‑profile players have been left out of the squad. Christian Pulisic is still regaining full match fitness, and veteran forwards Fikayo Tomori, Youssouf Fofana, Christopher Nkunku and Santiago Giménez have not received squad numbers for the new season, indicating they are not in Amorim’s plans. Their exclusion underscores the clear direction the coach is taking, favouring younger talent and recent acquisitions.

What to watch on TV

Fans in the United Kingdom can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1, with streaming available via HBO Max and DAZN. In the United States, the game will be broadcast on Paramount+. The pre‑match build‑up, live commentary and post‑match analysis will be covered on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Prediction and stakes

Both teams will be eager to start the campaign positively. Milan need a win to signal that the new era under Amorim is already bearing fruit, while Torino will look to exploit any lack of cohesion in the Rossoneri’s revamped attack. A narrow victory for Milan, perhaps 2‑1, seems the most plausible outcome if Cisse can adapt quickly and Ramos finds the net.