Liam Duckstein
As Inter chase the Scudetto and Champions League glory, the mood across the San Siro divide couldn’t be darker. For AC Milan, a 3-1 defeat to Roma has sealed a season of humiliation — one that will see them miss out on European competition entirely in 2025/26.
Their latest loss snapped a 10-match unbeaten run against the Giallorossi, with Leandro Paredes’ direct free-kick underscoring Milan’s vulnerability in key moments. Just days earlier, they were also edged out in the Coppa Italia final by Bologna — ending the Rossoblù’s 51-year wait for a trophy.
For Sergio Conceição, the writing is on the wall. But his exit won’t fix the deep-rooted issues plaguing one of Italy’s most storied clubs.
Identity Crisis in the Boardroom
Milan’s instability dates back to 2017 when Li Yonghong bought the club from Silvio Berlusconi. That short-lived era ended in 2018 with Elliott Management taking over after Li defaulted on debts. Then came RedBird Capital’s acquisition in 2022 — another change with little footballing clarity.
With fluctuating ownership came tight transfer budgets. Aged, short-term stopgaps like Álvaro Morata and Kyle Walker — both underwhelming and now gone — became the norm.
Managerial Mayhem and Zlatan’s Influence
After Stefano Pioli’s title-winning high, hopes were pinned on Paulo Fonseca, but he barely lasted six months. Then came Zlatan Ibrahimović’s bold claim —
“I am the boss” — and his handpicked choice, Conceição.
The result? Regression. Milan were eighth when Fonseca was sacked and are now ninth — with no Champions League hope and another era in ruins.
Poor Recruitment and Player Decline
On the pitch, João Félix was a marquee flop. One goal in 16 matches speaks volumes for a player whose inconsistency was well documented at Barcelona and Chelsea.
- Santiago Giménez: Failed to replicate Feyenoord form
- Theo Hernández: Defensive liabilities increasing
- Rafa Leão: Solid numbers (11G, 10A) but missing in big moments
Even players once seen as untouchable are now part of the problem.
Maldini Out, Directionless In
Removing Paolo Maldini may have pleased the Curva Sud, but elsewhere it was seen as a symbolic severing of Milan’s past. With no legend in leadership and boardroom politics rife, the club lacks a guiding philosophy.
“Milan has lost its identity” — a phrase now repeated among fans, pundits, and former players alike.
The Road Ahead
From missing Europe to a ninth-place finish and managerial chaos, Milan’s fall has been dramatic. Rebuilding will require more than just a new coach — it needs vision, structure, and belief.
Can Zlatan adapt? Can RedBird restore credibility? Can Milan rediscover their edge? These are the burning questions as another wasted year fades into the background.
Final Thought:
Once feared across Europe, AC Milan now look like a team adrift. Unless deep changes are made, their return to relevance will remain a dream deferred. What happens next is anyone’s guess — but it has to be better than this.