CEO Ivan Gazidis has revealed that he expects technical director Paolo Maldini to remain at the club despite reports suggesting his future is uncertain.
Just as it appeared that the Rossoneri were destined for yet another summer revolution – one led by Red Bull chief Ralf Rangnick – everything did a U-turn on Tuesday night as Pioli instead put pen to paper on a new contract until 2022.
As a result, it looks as though Milan have opted for continuity rather than radical overhaul for what feels like the first time in a long time, but attention has now turned to the futures of other key figures such as Maldini and striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, both of whom have been strongly tipped to leave once the season is over.
Gazidis has given an interview with il Corriere della Sera during which he shed some light on what he thinks will happen.
“Paolo has two years of contract and I expect him to stay. We feel every day, his contribution is very important,” he said (via MilanNews).
“I can’t say if Ibra now has more chance of staying. He gave us a great hand, since he came. He has put passion, instinct, talent in it. He has helped the younger players. A phenomenal player. We will decide together.”
Gazidis also added a word on Donnarumma, who in the last game reached the milestone of 200 appearances in the red and black shirt.
“A flag, a symbol, incredible that he is only 21 years old, I hope that our roads continue together.
“Pioli? We chose him because he is the right person to coach Milan that we have in mind. So not only for the latest results or because there is very little time left until next season. But for how he made the team play, in a fun way. And for his seriousness, his professionalism.
“He never put himself in front of the team and the project. That’s what a real manager does. That’s why we chose him. In addition to being a great coach, Stefano Pioli is a great man.”
