CorSera: Leao looking at four-week total absence – how his injury was misdiagnosed

Rafael Leao will have to spend longer out than was initially hoped as his calf issue was misdiagnosed, according to a report.

Leao got his 2025-26 campaign off to the perfect start by scoring a header early on against Bari in the Coppa Italia on August 17. However, moments after that he was forced off with a calf issue, and he has not seen the field since.

Not only that, but the Portuguese forward has continued individual work at Milanello, which has put Sunday’s game against Bologna in serious doubt.

More serious than first though

Today’s edition of Corriere della Sera (via MilanNews) reports that what initially appeared to be a minor strain was actually a low-grade soleus tear, a problem that will result in a four-week sideline (in total, meaning he has already had over three).

Photo by Claudio Villa/AC Milan via Getty Images

For this reason, Milan’s medical staff are taking no risks, and so Leao will also miss Sunday night’s match against Bologna at San Siro. At most, he could be on the bench, but that’s very unlikely at present.

Last night, during the Gentlemen’s Award ceremony, Leao spoke about his issue: “We’re working to get back as soon as possible, but it’s an injury that can’t be taken risks.” The calf is a delicate muscle, so rushing him back risks aggravating a longer-term issue.