AC Milan Announces Departure of Manager Stefano Pioli.
AC Milan has confirmed the immediate departure of manager Stefano Pioli, who has been at the helm since 2019 and famously led the club to the Serie A title in 2022. Despite a commendable second-place finish in the recent Serie A season, Pioli’s mixed campaign saw the Rossoneri fail to challenge their rivals Inter Milan for the title and exit prematurely from the Champions League, Coppa Italia, and Europa League.
“AC Milan extends heartfelt thanks to Stefano Pioli and his entire staff for leading the First Team over the past five years, securing an unforgettable League title and re-establishing AC Milan’s consistent presence in the top European competition,” read the official statement from the club. “Stefano’s professionalism and human touch have significantly contributed to the growth of the squad, embodying the Club’s core values from day one.”
Pioli’s tenure at AC Milan will be remembered for the historic 2022 league title, the club’s first in 11 years, which cemented his status as a Rossoneri hero. However, the subsequent seasons saw the team struggle to replicate that success. Despite reaching the Champions League semi-finals last season, where they were defeated by Inter, and maintaining a comfortable second-place finish in the league, Pioli was unable to deliver further silverware, prompting calls for change from fans.
Expressing his gratitude, Pioli stated, “I am deeply thankful to the ownership, management, team, staff, and everyone at Milanello and Casa Milan for their support and outstanding commitment. I also extend a special thanks to the many fans who have passionately supported AC Milan over the years, demonstrating unwavering dedication.”
Looking ahead, Lille manager Paulo Fonseca, who previously managed Roma, is the frontrunner to take over the managerial role at AC Milan. Reports suggest that a deal with Fonseca is nearly finalized, setting the stage for a new chapter at the storied club.
As AC Milan prepares for this transition, the club and its fans reflect on Pioli’s contributions and the memorable moments he brought to the team, while eagerly anticipating the future under new leadership.
