AC Milan’s Rebuild and Plans to Win Trophies
AC Milan is undergoing a massive rebuild to reclaim its place among Europe’s elite. Despite a rocky start to the 2024-25 season, which saw inconsistent performances and managerial changes, the club has shown resilience, especially in derby clashes against Inter Milan.
Their recent 1-1 draw in the Derby della Madonnina further solidified their revival. However, the Rossoneri know that only trophies will justify their rebuild. Under new management and with strategic signings, Milan is eyeing Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Champions League success.
AC Milan’s Managerial Overhaul: Enter Sérgio Conceição
A major step in Milan’s rebuild was the appointment of Sérgio Conceição as head coach in December 2024. The former FC Porto manager replaced Paulo Fonseca, whose tenure ended after a series of poor results. Conceição’s emphasis on high-pressing football, defensive solidity, and tactical aggression is already showing results.
Milan fans got their first taste of his tactical acumen in the Supercoppa Italiana Final, where the Rossoneri staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Inter Milan 3-2. Goals from Theo Hernández, Christian Pulisic, and a last-gasp winner from Tammy Abraham secured their first silverware of the season.
AC Milan’s Bold Transfers in January 2025
Milan’s squad overhaul was crucial to their rebuild. The January transfer window saw the club make key signings to strengthen various positions:
Key Signings:
- Kyle Walker (Loan – Manchester City) – The England international brings experience and leadership to Milan’s defense.
- Santiago Giménez (€32M – Feyenoord) – The prolific Mexican striker arrives with a stellar record, scoring 45 goals in 73 Eredivisie appearances.
- João Félix (Loan – Chelsea) – The talented Portuguese forward adds creativity and attacking depth.
- Riccardo Sottil (Fiorentina) – The Italian winger offers extra firepower for Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão.
- Warren Bondo (€10M – Monza) – A promising midfield alternative to Yunus Musah.
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Major Departures:
- Davide Calabria (Bologna) – The longtime captain was deemed surplus to requirements.
- Noah Okafor (Napoli), Ismael Bennacer (Marseille), Álvaro Morata (Galatasaray) – Offloaded to fund reinforcements.
These signings indicate Milan’s intent to return to the top of Serie A and compete seriously in Europe.
Tactical Adjustments Under Conceição
Conceição has already implemented a more direct, pressing-based approach, with aggressive counterattacks. This shift was evident in Milan’s latest performances, where they successfully disrupted Inter’s midfield and absorbed pressure effectively.
The introduction of João Félix alongside Rafael Leão could prove to be a game-changer in attack, while Kyle Walker’s leadership is expected to stabilize the defense.
Can AC Milan Reclaim Their Former Glory?
Financially, Milan is in a strong position. A Deloitte Money League report ranks them 13th in Europe, with revenue growth reaching $413M (€398M) in 2024. Club owner Gerry Cardinale has invested in squad depth, aiming for long-term dominance.
With Sérgio Conceição at the helm, key reinforcements in place, and a revived mentality, Milan has the tools to compete for major trophies again. If they can build consistency, the Rossoneri could soon reclaim their status as Italy’s most dominant club.
