Milan`s new sporting director, Igli Tare, met with journalists at the club`s headquarters. Here are his key statements:
Tare began by expressing gratitude for the warm welcome he`s received over his first two weeks at Milan. He acknowledged the immense responsibility of working for a club with such a glorious history, stating his goal is to help Milan return to the pinnacle of Italian and European football.
On the team`s characteristics and market progress: Discussing the current state and future squad, Tare explained they have analyzed last season`s problems but prefer to look forward, learning from past mistakes. He noted extensive meetings with the staff, including Zlatan, Moncada, and coach Allegri, confirming clear ideas. The plan isn`t a revolution but targeted interventions to specific roles to boost competitiveness, leveraging the extra time available during the week without European commitments.
On what was missing last season and the potential arrival of Modric: Asked about past shortcomings, Tare identified a lack of clear leadership. He believes the signing of Luka Modric directly addresses this, highlighting the Croatian`s global standing and continued desire to compete. Modric, along with one or two other experienced arrivals, will provide crucial guidance for the younger prospects in the squad.
On Xhaka and Jashari: Regarding potential midfield targets like Xhaka and Jashari, Tare confirmed that midfield is indeed the area needing the most significant intervention. He stated these players are among the alternatives being considered, but the final decision will be based strictly on the specific characteristics required to enhance the team`s quality.
An update on Theo Hernandez: On the future of Theo Hernandez, Tare acknowledged his importance but revealed the player is seeking a new experience. He views this desire as normal given the change in management and the club`s plan to build a different team. Tare stressed that Theo`s departure is not yet finalized, and negotiations are ongoing, noting how quickly situations can change minute by minute.
On potential major departures and Maignan`s future: Addressing questions about potential major departures like Reijnders and Theo, and possibly Maignan, Tare clarified that goalkeeper Mike Maignan is *not* leaving and will be a cornerstone next season. He mentioned external interest that didn`t materialize and reiterated Maignan`s crucial role on and off the pitch. While the market is unpredictable, Maignan is considered a fixed point for the team. He emphasized the need to generate enthusiasm and find players who are functional to the project and can improve the squad`s already existing quality.
On speaking with team veterans and their mood: Tare mentioned speaking with the team`s senior players, noting a resilient mood and drawing parallels to other clubs that quickly recovered after difficult seasons, suggesting Milan can do the same.
On the attack situation, Gimenez, and opportunities like Kean or Vlahovic: Regarding the attack, Tare indicated potential moves on the wings if players leave. For the center-forward position, they seek a player to compete with Gimenez, whom he rates highly but acknowledges is still adapting to Serie A from the Dutch league. The clear idea is to sign a `true` center-forward, a penalty box presence like Olivier Giroud, who can make a significant impact in the area. They are taking their time to find the right profile.
On Leao`s future: Addressing Rafael Leao, Tare lauded him as a `true champion` crucial to the project and capable of deciding matches. He was pleasantly surprised by Leao`s competitive nature and focus on how the team would be strengthened during their conversation. Tare believes Leao is an essential player who still has untapped potential, adding that no concrete offers have been received, with current interest being mere market speculation.
On Allegri, Musah, and the midfield plan: On Yunus Musah, Tare praised his quality but explained he doesn`t fit the specific characteristics required for the planned three-man midfield, particularly the `low-lying midfielder` role they are targeting. This is why they are seeking different profiles. The plan includes adding another midfielder (in addition to Modric), a forward, a right-back, and a left-back. Further defensive or wing signings depend on potential departures. The focus is on players functional to the system.
On how Massimiliano Allegri was brought in: Recounting the hiring of Massimiliano Allegri, Tare stated it was a priority for immediate action upon his arrival. He sensed Allegri`s strong ties to the club and deep knowledge of the team`s problems from their initial contact. A swift meeting facilitated Allegri`s decision within 48 hours to accept the project.
On the team identity under Allegri: Discussing the team identity under Allegri, Tare emphasized it`s about how the team plays, not just the formation. Extensive discussions with Allegri have resulted in a clear vision for a compact, dominant team focused on ball possession. Midfield reinforcements like Modric or a deep playmaker are crucial to elevating the team`s technical level, with the immediate goal being to compete for honors.
On aiming for the `second star` (Scudetto): Regarding the ambition for the `second star` (winning the Scudetto), Tare stated that Milan`s history dictates competing for trophies. He expressed honor in working for the club and is determined to achieve this goal alongside Allegri.
On Camarda`s future: On the future of young Francesco Camarda, Tare confirmed he`s an important prospect. The club decided to loan him to Lecce for a year to gain experience, with the expectation and hope that he will return stronger.
On the waiting period before joining and message to protesting fans: Reflecting on the waiting period before joining Milan, Tare called it part of the job, emphasizing that decisions for such an important club require careful consideration. He described fulfilling a childhood dream by coming to Milan, which provides extra motivation. Regarding fan protests, he sees them as adding responsibility, stating that lessons from defeats lead to victories, citing Napoli as an example of overcoming adversity. The goal is to learn from past errors and minimize new ones to be competitive immediately.
On the profile for fullbacks: Regarding fullback signings, Tare stated they have a clear profile in mind: young players with high potential who fit the system studied with Allegri. He expects progress on these deals in the next two to three weeks.
On Pulisic`s future and renewal: On Christian Pulisic, Tare called him a `fundamental player` for the upcoming season. Renewal talks will happen when appropriate, but the current focus is entirely on building the team. He praised Pulisic as one of the most positive players last season and a key pillar for the future.
On replacing a player like Reijnders: Addressing how to replace a player like Reijnders, Tare found comparisons difficult but highlighted Ruben Loftus-Cheek as one of Europe`s most complete midfielders, potentially fundamental if injury management improves. He added that replacement will come through new signings with characteristics needed for the flexible three-man midfield.
On the new striker`s profile: Regarding the profile of the new striker to compete with Gimenez, Tare said they are evaluating options both in Italy and abroad. The key is characteristics: the player must offer something completely different from Gimenez, who tends to move wide. They need a `true` center-forward who stays in the penalty area, holds the ball up, and links play, complementing Gimenez rather than being similar.
On his emotions upon arriving at Milan: Sharing his emotions upon joining Milan, Tare emphasized his strong belief in a `sense of belonging` and his desire to instill this in the team. He stressed the importance of the club`s history and representing it well, stating the need for players who truly identify with the Milan colors.
On his conversation with Modric: Describing his conversation with Luka Modric, Tare revealed the first question from the Real Madrid legend (winner of 7 Champions Leagues) was whether the team would be built to win the league. Tare saw Modric`s desire to be a protagonist, highlighting his crucial future role in transmitting mentality, personality, and leadership to the squad. He added that a prominent season would also benefit Modric personally before the World Cup.
On Allegri`s specific requests: Discussing his relationship with Allegri, Tare mentioned daily contact, often multiple times a day, ensuring the coach is informed of all decisions. They focus on player characteristics and market opportunities, with Allegri`s system being clear – prioritizing certain roles before filling the rest of the squad.
On the budget for the striker: Addressing the budget for a striker, Tare, agreeing with Zlatan, reiterated the need for a striker with characteristics different from Gimenez – specifically, one who stays central, holds the ball, links play, and is a presence in the penalty area. He stated it`s not solely about the price but the right profile, noting that market opportunities can arise. Tare emphasized that cost doesn`t guarantee success and the focus is on finding the player who fits the role and system. While the deep-lying midfielder is the top priority, a striker signing is also crucial.
On working with Moncada: Finally, on working with Geoffrey Moncada, Tare mentioned knowing him for 3-4 years. He described Moncada as a crucial collaborator for important decisions, highlighting his exceptional knowledge of players and confirming he is an integral part of the project.