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Full Breakdown

AC Milan's Ruben Loftus-Cheek Hospitalized After Collision in Loss to Parma

2/22/2026, 11:59:01 PM

Match Overview and Incident

AC Milan faced a setback in their Serie A campaign with a 1-0 loss to Parma at San Siro on February 22, 2025. The match was marred by a serious injury to Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who was hospitalized following a collision with Parma goalkeeper Edoardo Corvi. The incident occurred just 10 minutes into the game when Corvi attempted to intercept a cross and struck Loftus-Cheek on the head, resulting in visible injuries, including blood on his face.

Injury Details

Loftus-Cheek, 30, was treated on the field before being placed on a stretcher with a neck brace and transported to the hospital. Initial reports indicated that he sustained broken teeth and was being evaluated for head trauma. AC Milan later confirmed that Loftus-Cheek remained conscious throughout the incident but suffered fractures to his upper teeth and the maxillary alveolar bone. The club announced that he would undergo surgery that night, raising concerns about the potential impact on his season.

Match Outcome

Despite the injury, the match continued, with Parma securing the victory through a goal by Mariano Troilo in the 80th minute. The goal was initially disallowed for a foul but was awarded after a video review. This defeat further widened the gap between AC Milan and their city rivals, Inter Milan, who won their match against Lecce, extending their lead to 10 points. Milan had entered the match hoping to reduce the deficit to seven points but instead faced their third consecutive home disappointment, following a 1-1 draw against Como earlier in the week.

Broader Implications

The loss places additional pressure on AC Milan as they struggle to maintain competitiveness in Serie A. Parma's victory marked their third consecutive win, positioning them in 12th place in the league standings. Meanwhile, Inter Milan's consistent performance has solidified their lead, complicating Milan's aspirations for a stronger finish this season.

Official Statements

Parma coach Carlos Cuesta expressed concern for Loftus-Cheek, stating, "Our thoughts are with him." AC Milan's official statement confirmed the nature of Loftus-Cheek's injuries and the planned surgical intervention, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

While reports consistently mention Loftus-Cheek's injuries, there is some variation in the specifics regarding the extent of his injuries and the potential impact on his season. Some sources suggest a fractured jaw, while others focus on the dental injuries and head trauma without confirming the jaw fracture.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “The club said in a statement: “Following the instrumental tests carried out, Rubén Loftus-Cheek did not suffer a concussion or loss of consciousness.” — AC Milan Statement
  • “Our thoughts are with him,” — Carlos Cuesta, Parma Coach

This incident highlights the physical risks associated with competitive sports and the ongoing challenges faced by AC Milan in their current season.