Sergio Conceicao’s adventure with AC Milan has come to an end after just five months, and it was certainly a rollercoaster ride.
Read SempreMilan ad-free and get access to exclusive news. Click here for a free trial!
As MilanNews write, Allegri has returned to Milan, which has restored some excitement and enthusiasm among fans who believe he is the right choice. It is however necessary to respect and dedicate a few words to Sergio Conceiçao, his predecessor at Milan.
The cigar burns out
It began with a cigar between his lips and the Supercoppa Italiana in his hand, the brief adventure of Sérgio Conceiçao on the Milan bench. An unexpected triumph, which came just a few days after his appointment and following the abrupt dismissal of Paulo Fonseca.
The trophy won in a comeback against Inter in Saudi Arabia had made one think of an immediate jolt, a new era capable of reawakening dormant ambitions. However, it ended up being a fleeting illusion and the initial peak of a downward path.
Things only went south from there, with elimination in the Champions League against Feyenoord being the biggest disappointment. Conceicao’s side ended up finishing eighth place in Serie A and lost the Coppa Italia final against Bologna.
The Portuguese coach was unable to provide continuity in either results or performances. Too many complaints and problems with some players (such as the scene with Calabria after Milan-Parma, or the tense relationship with Bennacer).
There were signs of impatience and irritation, and no real ability to reverse the trend. The difficulties increased, as did internal tensions, while the team lost its identity and drive. Conceiçao was unable to bring energy and positive air, both with the press and with the Milan world.
Was it arrogance? No, it’s his character, and everyone has their own, for better or for worse. In the end, the farewell came without proclamations, without explanations, almost in silence. A cold epilogue, consistent with a parenthesis that ended as if it had never really begun.
Conceiçao leaves Milan without a trace. Only the smile of having inflicted defeat on Inter in the Supercoppa final remains. His parenthesis in red and black will always remain with the feeling of a missed opportunity, for him and for the club. But, he did write his name in the history books.