Milan’s Strategic Planning for the Future
As AC Milan prepares for the upcoming season, the club is gearing up to make significant changes to its managerial and administrative structure. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the primary focus is not on the players who take to the field but on the behind-the-scenes personnel who will shape the club’s future. A key move in this direction is the appointment of a new sporting director, a role that has been vacant for some time. This decision reflects a deep-seated desire to strengthen the club’s organizational and strategic capabilities, ensuring that the team is well-equipped to achieve its ambitious goals.
The Need for a Strong Sporting Director
Currently, AC Milan lacks a prominent figure who can effectively coordinate the team’s sporting activities and ensure smooth communication between the coaching staff and the players. The role of a sporting director is crucial in modern football, as it involves not just the acquisition and management of talent but also the overall strategic direction of the team. This individual must have the authority and expertise to influence key decisions and foster a cohesive working environment. CEO Giorgio Furlani acknowledged this need in a recent interview, stating, "We have to improve our sporting results a lot. For this reason, if there are figures that we can bring to the club who will help us achieve our goals, we will consider them. At this moment, no decision has been made on this profile." Furlani’s words underscore the club’s commitment to enhancing its performance through strategic leadership.
Competing Candidates: Fabio Paratici and Igli Tare
Two candidates have emerged as frontrunners for the sporting director position: Fabio Paratici and Igli Tare. Both individuals bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record in football management. Fabio Paratici, who served as the sporting director for Juventus during their incredible run of nine consecutive Scudetti, is a highly respected figure in the European football scene. Under his leadership, Juventus also reached two Champions League finals, demonstrating his ability to build and manage a top-tier team. Paratici’s European recognition and extensive network of contacts could be invaluable assets for AC Milan as they look to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level.
Igli Tare: The Man in Pole Position
However, Igli Tare, the former director of Lazio, appears to be the frontrunner for the position. Tare spent 15 years at Lazio, during which the club won three Coppa Italia titles and three Supercoppa Italiana trophies. His experience and deep understanding of Italian football, combined with his proven ability to develop and nurture talent, make him an ideal candidate for AC Milan. After a brief two-year hiatus from football management, Tare is eager to return and bring his expertise to a club with a rich history and tradition. His readiness and availability, coupled with his strong connections within the Italian football community, position him as the leading candidate for the role.
Evaluating the Candidates
The decision on who will take the helm as AC Milan’s new sporting director will not be made lightly. Both Paratici and Tare have had meetings in London with Gerry Cardinale and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, key figures in the club’s hierarchy. These discussions have likely focused on the candidates’ vision for the club, their strategies for improving performance, and their ability to work within the existing organizational framework. While Paratici’s European success and extensive experience are undeniable, Tare’s intimate knowledge of Italian football and his recent return to the scene may give him the edge. The club will now carefully assess these factors and make a well-informed decision that aligns with their long-term goals.
The Future Awaits
The appointment of a new sporting director is a critical step for AC Milan as they look to rebuild and rejuvenate the club. This individual will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s future, from player recruitment to tactical planning. Whether it’s Paratici or Tare, the new sporting director will face the monumental task of restoring AC Milan to its former glory. The club’s fans and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting this decision, as it will set the tone for AC Milan’s journey in the coming years. With the right leadership, AC Milan has the potential to once again become a dominant force in both Italian and European football.
