Gerry Cardinale said that he plans to be more hands on with his ownership of AC Milan, and he is trying to prove it with actions.
MilanNews recall that Cardinale landed in a helicopter earlier on Monday, mostly to minimise travel time so he could have more of the day with Ruben Amorim and the team. However, it certainly evoked memories of Silvio Berlusconi landing in his chopper.
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Cardinale watched the first bits of the session from the sidelines. Cardinale then had lunch with the team, sitting next to Matteo Gabbia. This is perhaps not just a footnote because Gabbia is something of a symbol, given he is both Italian and a Milanista, as well as a dressing room leader.
The owner also met with Amorim, greeted new signing Mario Gila and was right at the front entrance to hug Goncalo Ramos and his wife when they arrived at the training complex in the afternoon.
The RedBird chief made sure to express his closeness to the younger players by speaking with them at the lunch. It’s a new version of Cardinale, one that he said he would deliver.
Will it be enough to get Milan back to winning ways? The answer lies on the field, and there is a lot to be done, but it certainly feels like a more cohesive start to the summer preparations.
😍 Goncalo Ramos has arrived at Milanello to say hello to the coach, his staff and new team-mates!
📹 @MilanVibesIT pic.twitter.com/Xri6HviIiJ
— SempreMilan (@SempreMilanCom) July 13, 2026
Well, at least he is finally trying. The last 3 years of interviews about titles and investments and then buying mid players was ridiculous.
Hahaha like Berlusconi you say? Don’t make us laugh, please. Berlusconi brought champions! This Cardinale dude? He just bleats.
1986-2022-2026
I hope this presence of his becomes a regular feature.
When he starts practicing Bunga Bunga parties, then i will know he is serious
he’s doing what SD used to do lolol
SD?
Sporting director
I will analyze what happened.
The “statement making” mentality is evident in Cardinale’s arrival. The American investor is often accused by fans of being cold and detached from Italian passion. His use of a helicopter was a calculated psychological move to project strength, direct commitment, and a connection to the club’s classic heritage, all aimed at appeasing the supporters.
Sitting down with the underperforming players, the youth team, and the coach at the same table was intended to shatter the image of the “absent owner” who runs the club from New York. The owner presence on the first day grants Ruben Amorim absolute legitimacy in the eyes of the players and demonstrates that the board fully supports his tactical choices. This event proves that the Red Bird management is not entirely isolated and is well aware of the immense pressure from the fans. Cardinale presence at Milanello provides Amorim project with administrative backing and a serious start, reflecting internal club unity in the eyes of the media.