MILAN — AC Milan has dismissed coach Massimiliano Allegri and CEO Giorgio Furlani following what they termed “an undeniable failure” of a season. However, special adviser and club legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic remains in his position.
The team’s American owners, RedBird, made the decision just a day after Milan narrowly missed out on a Champions League spot, finishing one point short after a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home to mid-table Cagliari, despite initially leading 1-0.
Following the match, Allegri’s team faced boos from the home crowd.
Milan had held strong positions in the top two for much of the Serie A season but faltered with only two wins in their last eight matches, ultimately finishing fifth, which now leads to participation in the Europa League next season.
“The concluding part of the season was entirely inconsistent with previous performances, and last night’s disappointing loss transformed the season into an unequivocal failure,” RedBird stated in a release.
“It is time for a change and a complete reorganization of our football operations. Therefore, we are parting ways with CEO Giorgio Furlani, sporting director Igli Tare, head coach Massimiliano Allegri, and technical director Geoffrey Moncada effective immediately. We express our gratitude to each for their commitment to AC Milan during their time with the club.”
RedBird has retained special adviser Ibrahimovic for the next phase.
Allegri returned to Milan last year with the mandate to restore the Rossoneri to UEFA Champions League contention after their eighth-place finish in the previous Serie A season. Under Allegri, the team played 42 matches, achieving 22 wins, 10 draws, and 10 losses.
RedBird’s managing partner Gerry Cardinale is expected to collaborate closely with Ibrahimovic on the restructuring process, which includes appointing a new coach, CEO, and sporting director.
“Further announcements regarding the next appointments will be made in due course — with the aim to be ready and well-prepared for the upcoming season,” the statement concluded.
Allegri’s counterpart at Napoli, Antonio Conte, also exited his coaching role following the season’s final match on Sunday.
This report includes information from The Associated Press.