Italian media outlets are indicating that AC Milan’s head coach, Massimiliano Allegri, is intent on leaving the club at the conclusion of the season. This decision is reportedly driven by a significant disagreement with senior advisor Zlatan Ibrahimović.
Allegri’s potential departure from Milan, eyeing the Italy national team
The Rossoneri have experienced a challenging season. Despite an impressive 24-match unbeaten streak earlier in the campaign, a sharp decline in form since April has put their Champions League qualification goal at risk. AC Milan currently sits in fourth place with two matches remaining, level on points with fifth-placed Roma and just two points ahead of Como.
Behind the scenes, tensions have been escalating. Recent reports suggest that several Milan directors may face repercussions for the team’s performance. Furthermore, according to updates from Corriere della Sera, a rift has emerged between head coach Allegri and Zlatan Ibrahimović, a senior advisor to the board.
The relationship between Allegri and Ibrahimović is described as “non-existent” by Corriere della Sera. The dispute is said to have originated after Milan’s 1-0 loss to Napoli in early April, stemming from a disagreement over the selection of a third-choice goalkeeper for the 2026-27 season. Following this alleged argument on April 6, Ibrahimović was absent from Milanello for several weeks, only recently returning to the club’s training ground.
Thursday’s report highlights that underlying tension between Allegri and Ibrahimović has existed since the coach’s previous tenure, when Ibrahimović was one of his attacking options. Allegri was also reportedly displeased to learn that Ibrahimović frequently communicates with Antonio Cassano, a prominent critic of Milan’s recent activities. Corriere della Sera further claims that Ibrahimović has overstepped by offering tactical advice to Milan players, including Youssouf Fofana and Rafael Leao.
The Corriere della Sera report paints a bleak picture of the club’s internal dynamics, suggesting Allegri is eager to depart at the end of the season, irrespective of Champions League qualification. Meanwhile, Allegri remains a candidate to succeed Gennaro Gattuso as the head coach of the Italy national team. Recent speculation indicates he could become the “favourite” if Giovanni Malagò wins the upcoming FIGC election.