With seven Champions League trophies proudly displayed, a formidable legacy, and a reputation that once commanded respect worldwide, Milan now faces a starkly different reality. The club, after narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification, finds itself in one of the most profound identity crises it has experienced in recent years.
The harsh verdict on the pitch is only a part of the problem; the issues off the field are even more alarming. A club without a solid foundation cannot hope to build a successful future.
It’s disheartening to witness the club in such disarray, especially for those who should be held accountable. Fans are acutely aware of this fact. At the heart of the turmoil lies corporate leadership that has aimed to erase the past without having a concrete vision for the future. Cardinale’s early decisions raised many eyebrows: turning everything into a sterile business model, where algorithms substitute on-field know-how, has proven to be a failure in every aspect.
Today, the Devil has lost its key players, its leadership, and, crucially, its identity.
A Clean Slate at Casa Milan, but the Future is Uncertain 🤷♂️
In recent weeks, RedBird ownership has opted for a complete overhaul. Max Allegri is gone, but above all there has been a complete clear-out in management with the departures of the main operational executives, from Tare to Furlani and Moncada.
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In this post-restructure scenario, the only remaining figure is Ibrahimovic, who is Cardinale’s trusted ally. He will be overseeing this critical period from the United States, where he is engaged with Fox Sports during the 40 days of the World Cup.
This decision has not been received well by Rossoneri supporters. Given the current circumstances, even if this commitment was planned in advance, it’s arguably reasonable for fans to feel this way. They seek more than just Ibra’s social media presence; they demand a committed, visible leadership team. A club without strong leaders is akin to a ship without a rudder.
❌ Rossoneri Bench: From Coveted Position to “Hot Potato”
As if further complications were needed, what was once the pinnacle of a coaching career—leading Milan—has now become a secondary or even tertiary option. The current search for Allegri’s successor epitomizes this situation.
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Rather than a genuine coaching search, it resembles a series of rejections: figures like Andoni Iraola and Xavi have both politely declined with a firm “No, thanks.” As the time drags on, Milan may be forced to “settle” for a less-than-ideal candidate unless something changes quickly.
The reluctance of both high-profile and lesser-known coaches to engage with the Rossoneri only highlights the decline in the club’s appeal, exacerbated by the absence of clear leadership. Under these circumstances, it’s hard to assign blame to them.
💨 Not Just Leao! A Sense of Great Escape at Milanello
The decline of the Rossoneri is evident in the transfer market as well. The first notable departure will be none other than Rafa Leao, who recently shocked many by announcing his intent to leave the club.
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Moreover, Luka Modric appears to be distancing himself from a move to Milan. With the club’s failure to secure Champions League football, the chances of welcoming the Croatian star for an iconic final season among the elite have dwindled. The situation is similarly concerning regarding other key players like Pulisic and captain Maignan, who, despite extending his contract for another four years, has expressed his disappointment with the current situation.
While outgoing transfers invoke sorrow, the incoming market offers no relief. Without the Champions League as an attraction and lacking a well-defined technical strategy, many potential recruits are disinclined to accept offers. With both top players and prospective signings uncertain about their future, the risk of a significant exodus looms large.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.