AC Milan’s backup goalkeeper Marco Sportiello has suffered a serious hand injury during the team’s pre-season tour in the United States. The club has confirmed that Sportiello has a complete tear of the extensor tendon in the second finger of his left hand.
The injury, which occurred in a domestic accident, required immediate medical attention. Sportiello underwent successful surgery performed by a specialized team in the United States to repair the damaged tendon.
The Italian goalkeeper is expected to return to Italy in the coming days to begin his rehabilitation process. However, the severity of the injury means that Sportiello will be sidelined for a significant period, leaving Milan in need of a replacement backup for first-choice goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
Calciomercato report that In response to this setback, Milan are now exploring options to add another goalkeeper to their squad. Early reports suggest that the club is considering Sassuolo’s Andrea Consigli and Cagliari’s Simone Scuffet as potential replacements. There have also been offers for free agent Loris Karius, although the club may prefer an Italian player due to squad registration rules.
Sportiello joined Milan in June 2023 on a free transfer after his contract with Atalanta expired. In his first season with the Rossoneri, he made nine appearances across all competitions, conceding 12 goals and keeping three clean sheets.
This unexpected injury to Sportiello presents a challenge for Milan as they prepare for the upcoming season. The club will need to act swiftly to ensure they have adequate cover in the goalkeeper position, especially considering the importance of having a reliable backup to Maignan.