AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s injury issue isn’t serious, according to reports in France, as concern was raised this week after he suffered a setback.
The 27-year-old was limited to 29 appearances for the Rossoneri last season due to an ongoing calf issue that kept him sidelined for a significant period, and his absence was a real blow for us given how influential he is between the posts.
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In turn, it’s hoped that he returns for pre-season training later this summer in top condition, but there was concern this week as it was reported that he had suffered an injury setback while on international duty with France.
Fortunately, according to L’Equipe, although he didn’t complete the training session on Thursday with the rest of the group due to a muscular problem, it’s added that the issue ‘does not seem very serious’.
That said, the expectation, and rightly so, is that Maignan won’t be risked against Gibraltar as Brice Samba is tipped to start instead, and so that will hopefully give our No.1 time to recover and receive treatment to ensure that the issue doesn’t worsen.
France face Greece on Monday night and so it remains to be seen if Maignan comes back into contention for that game, but it’s hoped that he comes through unscathed either way before heading off for his summer break.
The French shot-stopper will undoubtedly have a major role to play for us again next season as we look to get back into contention for the Serie A title, while also trying to replicate and improve upon our progression in the Champions League last year.
With key players departing and the wait for new signings continuing, time will tell how the summer plays out in terms of improving the squad, but Pioli will lean on his pillars in the side again next year, and Maignan is certainly one of those.