Ruben Loftus-Cheek's move to AC Milan was a significant shift in his career trajectory. After experiencing mixed fortunes at Chelsea and several loan spells to gain playing time, his move to Milan offered a fresh start and a chance to prove his worth on a new stage.

The English midfielder's arrival at the San Siro was greeted with curiosity and anticipation. Loftus-Cheek's potential had always been evident, but injuries and inconsistent playing time had hindered his progress at Chelsea.

However, his loan move to Milan presented an opportunity to reignite his career and showcase his abilities in one of Europe's most prestigious clubs. Loftus-Cheek, though, has faced the challenge of adapting to a different footballing culture, tactical setup, and a highly competitive squad.

However, his versatility and technical prowess quickly caught the attention of the Milan faithful and the coaching staff. Despite initially being eased into the squad, he gradually asserted himself, displaying glimpses of his immense talent.

Under the guidance of Stefano Pioli, Loftus-Cheek has been handed many opportunities to showcase his skills in various midfield roles, contributing both defensively and in attack. His adaptability to different tactical setups and willingness to learn and evolve within the team's structure have been commendable.

Chelsea, though, do not seem to miss the 27-year-old too much and that is down to the form of Conor Gallagher. After a fairly underwhelming 2022/23 season, the England international has really flourished in the early exchanges of this term.

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Gallagher now looks like he has a defined role within the Chelsea squad and he is not just being used from the bench late on in matches. He has arguably been Chelsea's most consistent player this season and has outshone the likes of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo - the club's two most expensive transfers of all time - in midfield.

"That's not the case any more," he said in the week about self doubt he had. "After the World Cup squad was announced, I wasn't playing much for Chelsea and we were going through a tough period, so that's why I said that in an interview.

"But I'm very confident in my ability. Training and playing alongside midfielders worth £100million+ is good and shows where I'm at."

The arrival of these extremely expensive players seem to have helped him rather than hinder him. Gallagher knew at the time that it is part and parcel of being at a club with the size and history of Chelsea.

"It's what comes with being at a top club like Chelsea," Gallagher said. "In a way I was excited. But I needed to make sure I was ready to show the manager I was still good enough to play in this team.

"I would be lying if I said I wasn't [worried for his future]. When top players come in your position, you think you have less of a chance of playing. It makes you even more determined to prove you are good enough. I think I have done that this season."

Gallagher has quickly become one of Chelsea's most important players. And who would have predicted that a few months ago?