You either die a hero, or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain. That famous saying could not ring more true in Stefano Pioli’s four-and-a-half-year tenure at the helm.
The Rossoneri faithful have lived through just about every single emotion possible, but the nightmare past couple of weeks endured has forced many fans angrily on the verge of tipping point – and they have every right to feel aggrieved.
Personally, although many were sceptical of Pioli’s tactical awareness, especially in the crunch-time matches, in some cases the criticism directed at him was rather harsh. Let’s be honest, many were waiting eagerly on the edge of their seats to berate the Italian as soon as a defeat eventuated – but were quiet when the ship was resurrected as Milan’s back were against the wall on numerous occasions.
That said, six consecutive derby defeats – losing the Scudetto to Inter in the most recent derby – and an abysmal 180-minute performance against Roma in the Europa League quarter-finals means the club hierarchy has little choice but to part ways at the end of the season.
In the end, Pioli’s limitations were exposed to the point of no return and the tactical experiment with Rafael Leão as a sole number nine was ultimately the final straw. It’s clear he has reached his ceiling as Milan’s manager and the time has arrived for fresh ideas and a new direction.
With bitter rivals Inter Milan now celebrating their second star, the current anguish and pain for Milan fans is still incredibly raw – making it extra challenging to acknowledge just how far this once-fallen giant of world football has made steady steps to get back on the trajectory of competing with the elite.
However, it’s important to recognise it and distribute credit where it’s due.
More must-reads: