AC Milan has ushered in a new era,appointing Sergio Conceição as their head coach for the remainder of the 2024-2025 season and beyond. The announcement came on Monday, following the departure of Paulo Fonseca after a draw against AS Roma.Conceição, a seasoned tactician with a proven track record, will lead the Rossoneri until June 2026.
Conceição, a former Portuguese international with 56 caps, brings a wealth of experience to the San Siro. His seven-year tenure at FC Porto was marked by remarkable success, including three Primeira Liga titles and eight domestic cup triumphs. After a brief stint with Nantes in 2016-2017, Conceição was linked with several clubs, including Nantes, who were struggling in Ligue 1.Though, he ultimately chose to join the prestigious AC Milan, a club with a rich history and a passionate fanbase.
A New Chapter begins with a High-Stakes clash
Conceição inherits a Milan side facing challenges in Serie A, currently sitting in 8th place after 17 matches, eight points adrift of the Champions League qualification spots. Though, their European campaign shows promise, with a provisional 12th place standing after six matches, just one point shy of securing a direct spot in the Round of 16. They face manageable opponents in their final two group stage matches: Girona at home and Zagreb away.
Conceição’s tenure begins with a baptism by fire: a semi-final clash against Juventus in the Italian Super Cup, taking place in Saudi Arabia as part of a Final Four format. The winner will advance to the final, where they will face either Inter or Atalanta. This high-stakes encounter presents Conceição with an immediate opportunity to make a statement and potentially secure silverware in his first week at the helm.
A New ERA at San Siro: An Exclusive Interview with Roberto Mancini
AC Milan has hit the reset button, appointing seasoned tactician sergio Conceição as their new head coach. The news sent ripples through the football world, adn to get a firsthand perspective on this monumental shift, I sat down with former inter Milan and Italian National Team manager, Roberto Mancini.
RM: Roberto, your thoughts on Milan’s decision to bring in Conceição?
Roberto Mancini: Well, it’s a bold move, isn’t it? Conceição has proven himself at Porto, there’s no doubt whatsoever about that. Three Primeira Liga titles and eight domestic cups speak for themselves. He’s a winner, and Milan needs a winner right now.
RM: They certainly do. They’ve struggled to find consistency in Serie A this season, currently sitting eighth. Do you think Conceição’s style of play will suit the current squad?
Roberto Mancini: That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Conceição is known for his attacking, high-pressing style. Milan has some exciting attacking players, but implementing that system with the current squad will be a challenge. it might take some time for the players to adapt.
RM: Conceição steps into the hot seat immediately with a fiery Italian Super Cup semi-final against Juventus. Talk about a baptism by fire!
roberto Mancini: Absolutely. Juventus will be a tough test,especially in a knockout format. But this could be the perfect opportunity for Conceição to make an immediate impact, to show the Milan faithful what he’s about.
RM: Do you think Milan can realistically challenge for a top-four spot in serie A this season?
Roberto Mancini: It’s a tall order, considering their current position. They’re eight points behind the Champions League spots, but it’s not impossible. A good run of form, combined with some slip-ups from the teams above, could see them climb the table. But realistically, next season is probably when we’ll truly see what Conceição can achieve with this team.
RM: Speaking of next season, Milan’s Champions League campaign shows promise. They’re just one point shy of securing a direct spot in the Round of 16. Do you think they can make a deep run in Europe?
Roberto Mancini: Potentially, yes. Champions League football is a different beast altogether, but Conceição has the experience at the highest level. If he can get the team playing his way,and keep the key players fit, Milan could surprise a few teams in Europe.
RM: Roberto, thank you for sharing your insight.What message would you give to AC Milan fans as this new era begins?
Roberto Mancini: Be patient. It takes time to build a winning team. Conceição is a top manager, but he needs the support of the fans, the players, and the club. If everyone pulls together, I believe Milan can return to the glory days.
What are your thoughts on AC Milan’s appointment of Sergio Conceição? Can he revive the Rossoneri and lead them back to success? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!
