Serie A injury sidelines Belgian Leysen temporarily

The 23‑year‑old Belgian defender Fedde Leysen left Sunday’s Serie A match between Sassuolo and AC Milan with a knee injury. He walked off the pitch without a stretcher, assisted by two medics, and the exact diagnosis is still pending. The injury appeared serious, meaning a long‑term absence cannot be ruled out.

Regular role at Sassuolo

Since his arrival from Union Saint‑Gilloise in mid‑August, Leysen has been a constant presence in the Italian defence. The former Union player, who was previously snapped up from PSV Eindhoven, developed in Brussels into a reliable defender. At Sassuolo he quickly fought for a place in the starting eleven and has made a solid impression since the start of the competition.

During the clash with Milan the centre‑back visibly grabbed his knee and could not continue under his own power. He refused to take a stretcher, but two medics eventually helped him off the field. The footage suggests that he may be out of action for a while.

The exact severity of the injury is not yet officially known. Sassuolo is awaiting further medical examination, while an absence of several weeks or even months is not ruled out.

Match and aftermath

For Leysen this would be a major disappointment, now that his strong start at Sassuolo has taken a painful turn. The match ended in a 1‑1 draw; Adrien Rabiot put AC Milan ahead in the 63rd minute, but Odenthal equalised for Sassuolo five minutes later.

Ignace Van der Brempt also started for the home side, while Diego Moreira was in the starting eleven for Milan. Koni De Winter fell during the match, attracting additional attention.

On social media a tweet was posted: “Fedde Leysen est sorti sur blessure contre l’AC Milan. Bon rétablissement, Fedde!” The message underscored fans’ concern.