Full Breakdown
AC Milan's Summer Revolution: A New Era Under Massimiliano Allegri
9/3/2025, 1:44:08 PM
Major Overhaul of the Squad
AC Milan has undergone a significant transformation ahead of the 2025-26 season, with Massimiliano Allegri and new sporting director Igli Tare leading a complete squad overhaul. Following a disappointing previous campaign, where Milan finished outside European qualification despite winning the Supercoppa Italiana, the club decided to act decisively. Only nine players from the 2024-25 season remain, with 23 players departing through sales, loans, or expiring contracts, leaving the squad notably lean with just 22 registered players, including only 19 outfield players.
Key Departures and Financial Impact
The summer transfer window saw Milan collect approximately $114 million from player sales, including notable exits like Theo Hernandez for around $29 million, Malick Thiaw, and Tijjani Reijnders. This financial maneuvering allowed the club to invest heavily, with a total expenditure of $175.5 million on new signings, resulting in a net spend of nearly $60 million. This aggressive strategy highlights RedBird Capital's commitment to a rapid rebuild.
New Signings and Tactical Changes
Milan emerged as the highest spenders in Serie A during the summer transfer window, with significant signings including Adrien Rabiot, Christopher Nkunku, and Luka Modric. The club's strategy focused on blending experienced players with emerging talents to enhance their competitiveness. Allegri's tactical approach will be supported by a revamped midfield, aiming to address the team's previous shortcomings.
Official Ratings and Reactions
Italian media outlets have provided mixed evaluations of Milan's transfer activities. La Gazzetta dello Sport rated the club's summer window at 7, praising the acquisition of Rabiot and Modric for their experience and leadership qualities. Conversely, Corriere dello Sport assigned a rating of 6.5, noting the challenges posed by the departure of key players like Reijnders and the need for a traditional striker.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite the optimism surrounding the new signings, some fans and analysts express concerns about the squad's depth and the potential risks associated with such a drastic overhaul. With injuries already impacting key players, including Rafael Leão, the thin squad could pose challenges as the season progresses.
Verbatim Quotes
- “With so many exits and only 10 new arrivals, the squad looks dangerously thin, especially with injuries already hitting key areas.” — MilanNews
- “Today I think I touched the ball three times, but I scored.” — Christian Pulisic
What's Next for AC Milan
As the season unfolds, Milan's performance will be closely scrutinized to assess the effectiveness of Allegri's strategies and the impact of the new signings. The club's immediate focus will be on stabilizing their league position and ensuring that the squad can cope with the demands of Serie A and potential European competitions.
