CEO Ivan Gazidis has confirmed that AC Milan are already planning for the winter market and commented on the notion of a European Super League.
The AC Milan Shareholders’ Meeting was held this morning at Casa Milan with the purpose of approving of the financial statements. As was reported weeks ago in the media, the Rossoneri closed the 2019-20 financial year with around €190m in losses, which is a club record but is a situation heavily influenced by the loss of revenues due to Coronavirus.
After the meeting, Gazidis took to the floor to answer some questions from reporters, and began by discussing the Financial Fair Play parameters that the club are working under.
“If we qualify for European competition for the 2021-22 season, our next evaluation will take place in October 2021. UEFA will examine the trend of recent years, eliminating the effects of COVID,” he said (via MilanNews).
“If the financial trend goes positively, we will discuss our path with the rules in place. It would be premature to have discussions now, but with the financial discipline we are using, also thanks to strong ownership, we are sure we will arrive at the right path comply with UEFA rules.”
Reports continue to circulate suggesting that a European Super League could soon be announced – an 18-team competition made up of Europe’s top clubs – and that Milan could be involved.
Gazidis responded: “For over 10 years we have been hearing speculation about the Super League. However, the main function of the world of football is on the development of existing international competitions.
“But there are no proposals that can lead to a break with the leagues. Milan is playing an active role in the development of competitions and we are an important interlocutor at the level of ECA, UEFA, FIFA and Lega Serie A.”
On the January transfer market, Gazidis added: “We are going through a positive moment, but the path is still long and challenging. The club has a strong ownership behind them who has faith.
“We have a clear strategy: to sign some of the best talent in the world and make them grow with us. The summer transfer window has just closed and we are very satisfied. The sports management led by Paolo Maldini is already preparing for the winter window and we are confident.”
On the parameters of the market, Gazidis: “The world of football has recognised, even before COVID, that a more stable market would benefit everyone: clubs, players, agents and intermediaries.
“Personally I have always worked hard to bring order and stability and I will continue to doing it for the benefit of the world of football, both in Italy and internationally.”
