Igli Tare, the sporting director of AC Milan, openly acknowledged that the primary aim is to win the Scudetto, stating, “I’d be lying if I said otherwise; we are on the right path” following significant changes within the club. He also shared that his biggest regret during his time at Lazio was the signing of Ravel Morrison.
The former Albania international concluded his playing career at Lazio before transitioning directly into a managerial role, where he spent 15 years. After a two-year hiatus, Tare took on the director role at Milan this summer and reflected on his career during the Social Football Summit in Turin.
LA SPEZIA, ITALY – APRIL 14: Igli Tare of SS Lazio during the Serie A match against Spezia Calcio at Stadio Alberto Picco on April 14, 2023. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Tare recounted a surprising moment when he initially visited the Lazio office to sign his player contract, only to leave with a contract for the director role. He praised President Claudio Lotito’s foresight, noting that Lotito recognized his potential long before he did himself.
“Even as a player, I was always interested in how clubs operated and wanted to learn more. The hardest thing was presenting myself to the team as the new sporting director,” Tare explained.
He expressed his desire to cultivate the familial atmosphere he experienced at Lazio in his new role at Milan, stating, “The unity we had under Simone Inzaghi was extraordinary, and I aim to replicate that here. I’m pleased to see empathy growing among those at Milanello.”
“We’ve made significant changes, but now we can focus on the finer details during the week, which is harder when competing in Europe. It’s a chance to establish long-term foundations.”
Tare’s Ambitions with AC Milan
LA SPEZIA, ITALY – APRIL 14: Igli Tare of SS Lazio during the Serie A match against Spezia Calcio at Stadio Alberto Picco on April 14, 2023. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Tare expressed his ambitious goals for this season, asserting that victory in the Scudetto is a priority. “If the goal is to achieve success quickly, many elements must align. This is a comprehensive project, having signed 19 players and released 23,” he mentioned. “We are on the right path, and I’m eager to win significant trophies with this esteemed club.”
As for his approach to scouting, Tare discussed his blend of traditional methods with modern analytics. “I’m not entirely sold on data and AI; while they provide a broader perspective on player performance, they can’t replicate the instinct needed to identify talent. A balance of both—alongside a deep understanding of human values—is essential.”
“Just look at how Milan has invested in experienced players like Luka Modric, who surprisingly acts as one of the youngest on the pitch. Witnessing his youthful energy in the locker room is truly inspiring.”
Tare also admitted that his intuitive scouting can occasionally lead him astray. He reflected on his decision to pursue Ravel Morrison for Lazio. “I was intrigued by him ever since Sir Alex Ferguson spoke highly of him, so I brought him to Lazio, hoping to reignite his talent, but it proved impossible. I’ve never encountered such pure talent.”
Former Manchester United youth star Morrison joined Lazio for free in 2015 but only made eight appearances, totaling 161 minutes on the pitch. He had loan spells at QPR and Atlas before making a free transfer to Ostersund in 2019.