AC Milan have officially parted ways with manager Sergio Conceicao just six months into his 18-month contract, following a turbulent and ultimately disappointing spell at the helm of the Serie A giants. Conceicao, who was appointed in December 2024 after the dismissal of Paulo Fonseca, was unable to revitalize the Rossoneri’s fortunes, with the club finishing a dismal eighth in the league.
Despite a promising start—marked by lifting the Italian Super Cup within his first week—Conceicao failed to sustain any momentum. AC Milan struggled in the league under his leadership, crashing out of European qualification altogether and suffering a narrow defeat in the Coppa Italia final to Bologna. This final loss, combined with consistently poor Serie A results, led to mounting pressure and ultimately his dismissal.
Disappointing Domestic Campaign
Under Conceicao’s tenure, AC Milan’s league performance remained stagnant. When he took over, the club were in eighth place—a position they would end the season in, despite hopes of a turnaround. Of the 31 games he managed across all competitions, AC Milan won 16, drew six, and lost nine. In Serie A alone, Conceicao’s record stood at 11 wins, seven losses, and three draws—far from the standards expected of the seven-time European champions.
AC Milan’s inability to secure European football for next season has been a particular point of contention. While domestic rivals Inter Milan surged ahead to reach the Champions League final, AC Milan were left to reflect on a campaign full of missed opportunities and underwhelming displays. Defender Matteo Gabbia summed up the mood post-season, stating, “Quite simply, it’s been a bad season. We weren’t able to give our best. We were hoping for more, better from a team given how much talent it has.”
Official Club Statement and Tribute
In an official club statement released on May 29, AC Milan thanked Sergio Conceicao for his brief but eventful time at San Siro. “The club would like to thank Sergio and his staff for their commitment, professionalism and dedication in leading the team in recent months,” read the statement. “The Rossoneri family bids farewell to the coach who contributed to the conquest of the 50th trophy in AC Milan’s history, wishing him the best for his future.”
While his tenure was short-lived, Conceicao did manage to add to Milan’s illustrious history by guiding them to victory in the Italian Super Cup. The club emphasized this achievement as a highlight in an otherwise frustrating season, suggesting that his contribution, though limited, would be remembered with respect.
Massimiliano Allegri Tipped for Return
Reports from Italian media, including Calciomercato, suggest that former AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri is set for a dramatic return to the club. Allegri, who previously managed the Rossoneri between 2010 and 2014, winning the Serie A title in 2010–11, is reportedly in advanced talks to take over the reins once more.
After leaving AC Milan in 2014, Allegri enjoyed a highly successful stint with Juventus, securing five consecutive league titles. His potential return is seen as a stabilizing move by the AC Milan board, as they seek to bring experience and a winning pedigree back to the touchline. With AC Milan failing to qualify for Europe, the pressure will be on Allegri—should he return—to immediately restore the club’s domestic and continental credibility.
What’s Next for Conceicao and AC Milan?
For Conceicao, the future remains uncertain. His six-year trophy-laden spell at Porto before joining Milan may still carry weight with European clubs, but his recent failure in Italy could hurt his managerial stock in the short term. Known for his fiery passion and disciplined tactics, the Portuguese coach will be looking for a chance to rebuild his reputation.
As for AC Milan, the off-season presents a crucial period of transition. With key players likely to be reassessed and a new managerial setup on the horizon, the club faces a summer of rebuilding. Fan patience is wearing thin after several inconsistent campaigns, and any new appointment—particularly if it’s Allegri—will be expected to bring swift results and reestablish AC Milan among Italy’s elite.
–
