Stefano Pioli’s relatively successful managerial career at Milan is about to expire after a second straight season without a trophy. As per Calciomercato, Julen Lopetegui is the front-runner to assume the reins this summer.
Despite ending the club’s decade-long Scudetto drought in 2021/22, Pioli is no longer in the Milan hierarchy’s good grace. In fact, the board is determined to replace the former Inter boss. A 2-1 loss to Inter in Monday’s Derby della Madonnina was the final straw to break the camel’s back.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has already narrowed the search down to two names. Lille’s Paulo Fonseca and Lopetegui have emerged as the most suitable profiles to coach Milan next season. But the ex-Roma boss trails the 57-year-old Spaniard, who’s reportedly on the verge of penning a contract at San Siro.
Milan and Lopetegui have reached a verbal agreement, and his arrival is now a mere formality. Given his recent struggles at Sevilla and Wolverhampton, the Italians’ decision to hand him the reins has caused a division between the fans. This opinion-splitting controversy is the last thing Rossoneri need ahead of a crucial summer.
After failing to challenge Inter’s title credentials, Milan must work as a unit to close the distance. Only time can tell whether Lopetegui is the right choice. Nonetheless, the agreement is close.
The parties have even drawn up a recruitment strategy. Aston Villa’s Diego Carlos is the prime target, with Rossoneri desperately seeking a dependable center-back amid a disastrous defensive campaign. Milan have conceded 39 goals after 33 league rounds, 21 more than champions Inter.
More must-reads: