Failed vision and a track record: Why Milan have rolled the dice with a mid-season coaching change

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·2 January 2025

Failed vision and a track record: Why Milan have rolled the dice with a mid-season coaching change

Paulo Fonseca has been relieved of his duties as AC Milan’s head coach after what has unfortunately shaped into a disastrous first half of the season.

The Rossoneri have acted decisively, appointing Sergio Conceição as his successor in an attempt to salvage their campaign and restore faith among an increasingly disillusioned fanbase.

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But just what were the reasons for making such a sudden change, given that the announcement of the new coach came just a few hours after the statement confirming Fonseca’s exit?

Choppy, inconsistent performances

Fonseca was brought in to build upon the solid foundation laid by Stefano Pioli, who had led Milan to a period of stability, capped by consistent Champions League qualifications and a surprise league title in 2021-22.

Fonseca’s mandate was clear: to build on the established foundation while adding his flair to the team. However, the odds were stacked against him from the outset.

Despite flashes of brilliance, such as the impressive derby win against Inter and an ecstatic Champions League triumph against defending champions Real Madrid, Fonseca’s tenure failed to deliver consistent results or sustainably propel the team forward.

After 17 league games, Milan find themselves languishing in eighth place, 14 points adrift of league leaders and eight points behind fourth-placed Lazio. For a squad possessing the talent within the ranks at Milan, this underperformance is inexcusable.

Fiorentina, Bologna, and Lazio – all with new coaches this season – have outperformed Milan, further highlighting Fonseca’s glaring inability to maximise the potential of his squad.

Failure to establish identity

The most damning aspect of Fonseca’s reign has been his failure to institute a cohesive playing style. Milan’s performances often lacked direction, with players seemingly unsure of their roles.

Yunus Musah’s infamous words indicating confusion regarding tactical instructions during the defeat to Parma and Rafael Leão’s more recent remarks about the team beginning to grasp the details of Fonseca’s proposed style were especially revealing, given the coach enjoyed a full pre-season with the squad to implement his ideas.

While some, like Tijjani Reijnders and Christian Pulisic, have flourished, others – including key figures like Theo Hernández and Leão – have regressed at an alarming rate. Fonseca’s rigid approach and inability to manage difficult personalities further alienated him from the dressing room.

Adding to the narrative of his struggles, Fonseca’s last game in charge against Roma epitomized his tenure. A red card issued to the coach during the match symbolised the end of a turbulent chapter.

Ironically, just as Pioli’s fate was sealed following a Europa League defeat to Roma, Fonseca’s dismissal comes after a poor showing against the same opponent, and his former club.

Conceição steps in

The appointment of Sergio Conceição is a statement of intent from Milan’s management. A seasoned and demanding coach, Conceição arrives with a proven track record.

During his time at Porto, he claimed 11 major trophies, including three league titles and multiple domestic cups, achieving a 72% win rate in the process. Conceição’s debut season saw him amass 88 points from 34 games – a testament to his ability to organise and motivate his teams.

Known for his defense-first, possession-based approach with an emphasis on verticality, Conceição’s style contrasts sharply with the lack of structure seen under Fonseca.

He is also reputed for his rigorous demands on players, both physically and mentally, and is expected to bring much-needed discipline and focus to Milan’s underachieving squad.

Fan sentiment and the road ahead

The decision to part ways with Fonseca and bring in Conceição appears to be as much about placating the fans as it is about improving on-field results.

Supporters have grown increasingly critical of the club’s management, citing questionable decisions and a lack of accountability or ambition. By bringing in a coach of Conceição’s repute, Milan’s hierarchy hopes to quell discontent and signal their commitment to turning things around.

Conceição faces a monumental task. While Milan’s current league position is concerning, the quality within the squad can be unlocked to achieve an uptick in performances and the team’s position in the standings.

If the Portuguese tactician can revitalise the likes of Theo and Leão, maintain the upward trajectory of players like Reijnders and Pulisic, and instil a clear identity, a top-four finish is still within reach.

A failure of vision

While Fonseca’s dismissal is justified, his failure reflects poorly on Milan’s management. His appointment, in hindsight, was a gamble that didn’t pay off.

Fonseca’s struggles highlight the risks of choosing a coach who, despite past successes, lacks the pedigree to handle a club of Milan’s stature and the expectations that come with it.

As the Fonseca short, turbulent era comes to a close, Milan’s management should ensure they’ve learned from this episode.

Conceição’s hiring marks a chance for redemption, but the club’s leadership must back their new coach with unwavering support and a clear long-term vision.

Conclusion

The Fonseca experiment at Milan has ended in disappointment, but the arrival of Conceição offers a fresh start. With his impressive resume and disciplined approach, Conceição has the tools to steer Milan back on track.

For the Rossoneri faithful, hope now rests on the shoulders of a man accustomed to winning. Whether Conceição can translate his Porto success to the San Siro remains to be seen, but his appointment propounds that Milan is ready to fight for its place among Italy’s elite once again.