When Stefano Pioli seemed destined to leave the club at the end of the season, Antonio Conte’s name was linked extensively with becoming the 58-year-old’s successor at AC Milan. However, the scene now looks much different, but Conte may still be a Serie A manager next.
This season, Pioli and Milan revolved around the same cycle for too long, with reports of his departure shortly followed by confirmation of his stay, and so on. Eventually, though, the Italian was told a decision would be made at the end of the season.
In 2024, Pioli has done superbly. The Rossoneri have progressed deep into Europe and have been excellent in Serie A, so the signs point in the direction of continuation under the current manager.
This comes with risks, though. The main one is that as a result of continuation, the Diavolo may lose their ability to replace Pioli in the future with their current targets – look at Thiago Motta, for example, who is reportedly in advanced talks with Juventus.
The other name that Milan were extensively surveying was Antonio Conte, who could join Napoli in the summer, according to reports from Calciomercato.com. The Neapolitan outfit were rumoured to be interested in Pioli if he departed, but it seems they will look to Conte for stability.
Aurelio De Laurentiis sees him as the ‘dream’ appointment, and while Milan also see Conte as an apt replacement for Pioli, the club is leaning towards continuation instead of a replacement.