AC Milan has parted ways with head coach Paulo Fonseca following a period of inconsistent performances that left the club struggling to secure a Champions League spot. The decision was officially announced on Monday, a day after Milan’s 1-1 draw against AS Roma at the San Siro.
Fonseca, 51, had hinted at his dismissal during the post-match press conference on Sunday, confirming the news to reporters as he exited the stadium. The Portuguese tactician, who previously managed Shakhtar Donetsk, AS Roma, and Lille, faced mounting pressure as Milan fell to seventh in Serie A, eight points behind fourth-placed Lazio and 12 adrift of league leaders Inter Milan.
“AC Milan announces that Paulo Fonseca has been relieved from his duties as Head Coach of the Men’s First Team,” the club stated. “The Club extends its gratitude to Paulo for his great professionalism and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.”
Sergio Conceicao, a 50-year-old Portuguese coach with prior Serie A experience as a player, is expected to take the reins. Conceicao is currently available after concluding a successful seven-year tenure at Porto in June.
Fonseca’s tenure was marred by conflicts within the squad and public criticism of key players. He openly questioned the commitment of some, including star winger Rafael Leao, and controversially benched France international Theo Hernandez for a youth player in a goalless draw against Genoa earlier this month.
The team’s lackluster performances have fueled fan frustration, culminating in protests during the club’s 125th anniversary celebrations on December 21. The milestone event, intended as a joyous occasion, was overshadowed by a disappointing match and the conspicuous absence of club legend Paolo Maldini.
Supporters voiced their dissatisfaction with banners criticizing the club’s US-based owners, RedBird Capital Partners, and chanting demands for their departure. Tensions escalated further when fans gathered outside a private party for the anniversary, expressing their anger at players and management alike.
As Milan searches for stability under new leadership, the pressure mounts to revive the fortunes of the seven-time European champions. With the January transfer window approaching, Conceicao is expected to address the squad’s weaknesses and reignite their push for a top-four finish.
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