Elite Manager Makes Himself Available Amid Milan Search for Pioli’s Heir

With the transfer window around the corner, time is ticking for Milan to name Stefano Pioli’s successor and start shaping up the recruitment program. Multiple coaches have emerged as candidates to replace the Italian at San Siro, yet nothing concrete has yet to happen. 

Amid talks Lille’s Paulo Fonesca is closest to winning the race, an opportunity has presented itself to Milan. Brighton announced on Saturday that they will part ways with highly-rated manager Roberto De Zerbi after a season-ending Premier League fixture against out-of-sorts Manchester United. 

De Zerbi has caught the eye of Milan. However, the Serie A powerhouse was hesitant to get in touch with the former Sassuolo tactician due to his release clause in East Sussex. That’s out of the way now, as De Zerbi found a mutual agreement to depart the Amex Stadium at the end of the season. 

Milan fans would love to see a coach of De Zerbi’s vision and style of play on the bench next season. And the 44-year-old has done much of the heavy lifting by setting himself free of his Brighton contract, extending Rossoneri a potentially decisive helping hand. Now it’s time to act. 

With all due respect to Fonesca, De Zerbi is far better suited for the Milan job. Aside from his football philosophy, he knows the Italian mentality and culture. He transformed Sassuolo from Serie A minnows into a factory of talent, making them one of the most enjoyable teams to watch. 

He has done the same with Brighton. Now is the time to take a quantum leap, and Milan could be the perfect environment for De Zerbi to show his qualities on the big stage.