- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
AC Milan are beginning to look at options to replace manager Stefano Pioli and have identified an English manager as a possible replacement, HITC understands.
Stefano Pioli has been at AC Milan since 2019 and guided them to the Serie A title in 2022, but they are off the pace this season. Currently, Pioli’s side are in third place in Serie A and they are adrift of league leaders and rivals Inter Milan.
Despite being contracted to the Italian side until 2025, HITC sources confirm that the Rossoneri’s hierarchy are looking at other options and we understand that former Chelsea boss Graham Potter is one of those that they have assessed.
Potter has been out of managerial work since being sacked by Chelsea last season due to the London club’s dreadful season under his management.
AC Milan’s targets
The Italian side are looking at the former Brighton & Hove Albion boss who turned down the chance to return to management when offered this chance by Leicester City in the summer.
Manchester United and Crystal Palace have also been linked with the Englishman but nothing ever came of this.
Another reported target for the Italian side is former Barcelona and Inter Milan midfielder Thiago Motta – who is now impressing as boss of Bologna – is also being looked at.
However, HITC has been told that the firm favourite to take charge of the San Siro if, and when, Piolo leaves is Antonio Conte, who has also been out of work since departing Tottenham Hotspur last summer.
Conte possibility
Since leaving the North London club last season, Conte has been linked with a whole host of jobs and it seems a return to Italy could well be on the cards.
Conte has previously managed Inter Milan as well as Juventus in Serie A. HITC has been informed that the possibility of taking over at Milan does appeal and that talks have already taken place.
Those at AC Milan insist that no decision has yet been made on Pioli’s future at the club.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
