Milan is actively exploring international options to succeed Stefano Pioli, considering a variety of candidates such as Mark van Bommel, Christophe Galtier, Paulo Fonseca, Julen Lopetegui, and Marcelo Gallardo.
According to the latest report from La Gazzetta dello Sport, club owner Gerry Cardinale has reportedly made the decision to part ways with Pioli at the end of the season, regardless of the outcome of the Derby della Madonnina against Inter Milan. Milan’s lack of contention in the Scudetto race and early exits from the Champions League, Coppa Italia, and Europa League have contributed to this decision.
Cardinale is said to be leaning towards hiring a coach from abroad, with several names circulating in the media. Among the frontrunners are Fonseca, the current coach of LOSC, and Lopetegui, a former coach of Spain, Real Madrid, and Wolves.
Other potential options include Marcelo Gallardo, currently coaching Al Ittihad but renowned for his success with River Plate and Nacional de Montevideo, as well as Christophe Galtier, currently with Al-Duhail and previously close to taking the Napoli job before Rudi Garcia’s appointment.
Tuttosport has also suggested another foreign contender, Mark van Bommel, reportedly favored by advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Van Bommel, who previously played for Milan, has coaching experience at PSV Eindhoven, Wolfsburg, and Royal Antwerp, where he secured the Jupiler Pro League title.
Alternatively, Milan could consider promoting Ignazio Abate from the Primavera youth team, especially after his success in leading Milan to their first UEFA Youth League Final, offering a potentially more cost-effective option.
