Gabbia: ‘I will be Milan’s biggest fan’ after surprising operation | OneFootball

Matteo Gabbia confirms his surgery ‘went well’ and the Milan defender will be ‘the biggest fan’ cheering on his teammates during the time off the field.

The defender had pulled up during the warm-up of the defeat to Parma at San Siro and it did not seem to be particularly serious.

However, following a consultation with specialists in London, it was decided he should have an operation for a sports hernia.

That was performed today and he is expected to be out of action for circa one month.

Gabbia thanks Milan fans for support

MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Matteo Gabbia of AC Milan is challenged by Arnaud Kalimuendo of Stade Rennais FCduring the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 Knockout Round Play-offs First Leg match between AC Milan and Stade Rennais FC at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 15, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“The operation went very well!!” wrote Gabbia on his Instagram.

“I wanted to thank all those close to me who have shown their support during this period, first and foremost my wife, who is always by my side. THANK you also for all your support.

“I am disappointed not to be there on the pitch to help the team at this important moment, but I will be their biggest fan.

“A special thank you to the club and all the medical staff for the incredible work and professionalism with which they resolved this problem in the best possible way.

“I particularly wish to thank Doctor Mazzoni. Thank you, because over the last two days you have been like a second father to me, and I cannot forget that. I care for you very much.

“Now my mind goes to the recovery. We’ll see each other soon!! Forza Milan always!”

The 26-year-old defender is a product of the Milan youth academy and had some loan spells with Lucchese and Villarreal before truly flourishing at San Siro from 2024.

He had become a regular this season under Max Allegri, making 25 appearances between Serie A and the Coppa Italia.

There had also been a brief knee injury in December, but that was less serious than feared, so this sports hernia surgery was rather unexpected.