Do you know Kyle Walker Elbow Surgery is swear for 2025 season?

AC Milan’s ambitions for a strong finish to the 2025 season have taken a major hit. England international Kyle Walker, a winter signing on loan from Manchester City, has been ruled out after suffering a fractured elbow during training.

The veteran right-back underwent surgery in Milan, with the club confirming the operation went “perfectly to plan.” While the Rossoneri fight to secure European qualification and prepare for the Coppa Italia semi-final second leg against arch-rivals Inter, Walker’s absence leaves a gaping hole in the defensive line.

The 34-year-old has quickly cemented himself as a crucial figure in the Milanese defense since his arrival in January, appearing across Serie A, the Champions League, and Coppa Italia. With only seven games left in the league and a cup semi-final in the balance, his injury casts a shadow over Milan’s run-in. 

Recovery is expected to take up to four weeks, leaving fans and management alike anxiously hoping for a swift return as the club chases silverware and European competition. Here’s everything you need to know about the injury, the implications, and what the road ahead looks like for both Kyle Walker and AC Milan Standings.

Kyle Walker Injury: How It Impacts AC Milan’s 2025 Season Run-In

Kyle Walker Injury Update

In an official statement, AC Milan confirmed the right-back sustained a fractured right elbow, requiring surgical intervention to repair the olecranon through osteosynthesis. The club noted that the operation “went perfectly to plan,” and Walker has already begun rehabilitation.

This comes as a huge blow given Walker’s quick adaptation and the veteran leadership he brought to the squad. It’s unclear how long the recovery will take, but according to MilanNews.it, the hope is that he could be fit in four weeks—just in time for the final stretch of the season.

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AC Milan’s Defensive Crisis Deepens

The injury couldn’t come at a worse time. Milan, currently sitting ninth in Serie A, are seven points adrift of the Europa Conference League spot. With European football hanging in the balance, every fixture matters. Losing a player of Walker’s experience—especially in high-stakes matches against Atalanta and Inter—complicates Sergio Conceição’s tactical plans.

Kyle Walker at AC Milan: Stats So Far (2024/25)

Here’s a snapshot of Walker’s contribution since his January loan move:

Why Walker’s Presence Has Been So Important

Walker’s tactical intelligence, composure under pressure, and ability to lead the backline have been invaluable since his arrival. His overlapping runs and defensive coverage allowed Milan’s wingers more freedom to attack, especially in their high-press style under Conceição. With Theo Hernandez often pushing forward, Walker’s defensive reliability provided crucial balance.

Possible Replacements and Tactical Adjustments

Without Walker, Conceição might turn to Alessandro Florenzi or even Pierre Kalulu for cover at right-back. However, both come with limitations—Florenzi’s lack of pace and Kalulu’s inexperience in high-pressure fixtures.

Milan may need to shift into a back-three temporarily to cover for defensive vulnerabilities, using wing-backs to maintain width while protecting the flanks more conservatively.

Milan’s Remaining Fixtures – Crucial Calendar

1. Udinese (A) – April 11
   
2. Atalanta (H) – April 19
   
3. Inter (Coppa Italia SF Leg 2) – April 24
   
4. Frosinone (A) – April 28
   
5. Lazio (H) – May 5
   
6. Bologna (A) – May 11
   
7. Torino (H) – May 18
   

Should Walker return in early May, he could potentially feature in the final two league games, assuming his recovery proceeds smoothly.

What This Means for the Summer Transfer Window

Walker is expected to make his move permanent from Manchester City this summer. However, this injury could spark internal debate on his long-term fitness at age 35. Milan may now consider bringing in another younger right-back as a rotation or contingency option.

Conclusion: Milan’s Road Ahead Now Harder Without Walker

Kyle Walker’s elbow fracture comes at a critical juncture in AC Milan’s season. From chasing a European spot to preparing for the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final, the Rossoneri now face major questions at the back. His recovery timeline remains cautiously optimistic, with a potential return before the season wraps up.

For now, Milan must find stability without him and rally around the squad depth that remains. The next four weeks will not only define their domestic campaign but may also influence their decisions in the summer transfer market.

FAQs

How long will Kyle Walker be out with his elbow injury?
Walker is expected to be sidelined for approximately four weeks following surgery on his fractured elbow.

Will Kyle Walker return before the end of the 2024/25 season?
There is hope within the AC Milan camp that he may return in early May, just in time for the final league games.

What kind of surgery did Kyle Walker undergo?
Walker underwent osteosynthesis surgery in Milan to repair the olecranon fracture in his right elbow.

Who could replace Kyle Walker in the Milan starting XI?
Likely candidates include Alessandro Florenzi and Pierre Kalulu. A tactical shift to a back three may also be considered.

Is AC Milan planning to make Walker’s move permanent?
Reports suggest Milan are still interested in securing Walker’s services permanently, but the injury may influence their summer strategy.