AC Milan defender Simon Kjaer is out for the rest of the season, according to Fabrizio Romano. He injured his knee in Milan’s 3-0 victory over Genoa this week, and will now have surgery. The timescale put on Kjaer’s recovery is six months.
AC Milan Defender Simon Kjaer Out for the Season
A Rock for AC Milan
Kjaer has been outstanding since arriving in Milan in January 2020. He completely revolutionised a struggling defence. More than that, he combined years of experience, along with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, to give Milan much-needed leadership. It’s no coincidence that Milan returned to relevancy in both Italy and Europe since Kjaer’s arrival.
The Dane was also recently nominated on the Ballon d’Or shortlist. He did not win, but it showed that the football world recognises his performances and achievements for both Milan and Denmark. He will surely be back in the stands for Milan after his surgery, but his leadership on the pitch and in the locker room is irreplaceable.
What’s Next for Simon Kjaer and Milan?
Kjaer has formed a very strong centre-back partnership with Fikayo Tomori in Milan’s back four. It was an almost perfect blend of experience and youth. As of now, the most logical replacement for Kjaer is Alessio Romagnoli. The Italian still serves as the club’s captain but lost his place in the starting 11, where he usually operated alongside Kjaer, since Tomori’s arrival this past January.
Romagnoli remains a solid option but has struggled defensively over the past couple of seasons. His leadership will be welcomed back onto the pitch, however.
Milan’s other centre-back option is Matteo Gabbia. Although an improving player, he remains inexperienced. It would not come as a surprise to see Milan target a stopgap option this upcoming January transfer window.
Kjaer will be 33-years-old by the time he’s back on the pitch. Milan certainly hope for a strong and speedy recovery.
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