This summer, AC Milan need to make steps forward, and if they fail to do so, they will only move backwards compared to their competition both domestically and continentally.
There is a lot of pressure being put on the summer, and it is clear to see why. Ultimately, Milan must make the required steps forward, given that they have a rare opportunity to do so. If last summer was the reset, this summer must be the continuation.
Of course, Massimiliano Allegri and Igli Tare had to rebuild the squad almost entirely last year. Now, they have the luxury of stability, with the bonus of finances, so they can have a more settled period.
A vital period for Milan
Saying that, the upcoming mercato will be equally as important, and if they are not careful, the Rossoneri could move backwards. On paper, it may seem straightforward, but there are several reasons why things could go pear-shaped.
Antonio Vitiello, this morning, wrote an editorial piece, going into detail about Allegri’s needs.
“First of all, the squad will grow from 19 outfield players to at least 23-24, precisely to manage the Champions League, Coppa Italia, and the league. However, the players who arrive shouldn’t be just fillers, but rather players with specific characteristics. Because next year, with three competitions, managing resources will be even more challenging.
“Allegri has asked for quality players with a certain level of experience. The perfect example is Adrien Rabiot, a player so indispensable that AC Milan’s points average plummets when he’s not there. Players of this calibre need to be brought in if they want to finally close the gap with the other Italian big teams.
“Moving on to the roles that could be improved, the manager has requested five players. They start with an additional central defender, one above the current starters. Then there’s a midfielder, a winger who can play on both flanks. A strong striker and a weaker striker.
“This means Fullkrug is unlikely to be retained, and another striker from the current squad could leave.
“In midfield, to give an idea of the players Allegri is particularly interested in, Leon Goretzka, whose contract with Bayern Munich expires. The German would be a fitting addition to the Tuscan coach’s requirements.
“He’s an experienced player, 31 years old, with numerous international appearances and coming from a winning club like Bayern Munich. He would be instrumental in making the team even stronger, both technically and mentally.
“On paper, he’d be perfect, but then there’s a salary issue and fierce competition. AC Milan, however, are interested in Goretzka, as confirmed in Germany.
“Along these lines, AC Milan is working to retain another world-class player like Luka Modric. Especially to quell rumours coming from Spain about him retiring at the end of the season. That would be a shame, given the Croatian midfielder’s physical condition.
“Despite his 40 years, Luka is still dominant, well-positioned, and is among Max Allegri’s most used players.
“What’s emerged is a collective effort to convince the coach, the sporting director, the team, and the fans. Everyone wants Modric to stay another year, and he’s seriously considering it. He’s enjoying the city, feels the support of the fans, and that would encourage him to stay.
“The Champions League would also be another option. But the final decision is his, and the entire Rossoneri world is eagerly awaiting his decision.”
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Upgrades for Estupinan and RLC are a must, high caliber CB and ST and someone that can be Rabiot/Modric sub.
we are getting 70M from loaned out players, excluding Bondo and Musah. Also another 20M from RLC and Estupinan.
we have to finalize the squad and I hope Tare and Allegri can make these stooges finally finish their job…
I think also: estupinan should be sold.
New strong left wb, quality central forward (not even close fullkrug caliber) and best possible centre back and midfielder.
Selling Nkunku is than necessary.
Again, we can talk about positions of need until we turn blue in the face.
What is this management’s plan? That’s the question. Do they sell the loanees and plug the hole from CL this season and only spend what’s left on bargains?
What is the anticipated income from CL next season? What is the budget for the summer? how much pull does Allegri actually get? Who’s in charge of the mercato?
There are so many questions that need to be answered before we start focusing on positions of need…
Players out: Estupinan, Nkunku, Fullkrug, RLC and Leao. I don’t see the need to keep Leao at this point because if he doesn’t improve his value will drop significantly after next season.
Players in: Gila, Retegui, Castro, Goretzka, RWB, starting LWB.