On May 22, 2022, Milan and Stefano Pioli celebrated the last Rossoneri league title – a thrilling and somewhat unexpected joy. Fast forward to May 22, 2024, Pioli officially learned he is no longer Milan’s coach, no surprises this time, as the end was inevitable. The final chapter unfolded against Salernitana, where the two events, in a way, are linked: Pioli led Milan back to the top of the league and among Europe’s top four, reviving the team’s fame on the international stage.
Pioli arrived in October 2019 to a confused and identity-lacking group, transforming them into a successful and recognizable team. Despite recent criticisms, with derby losses and inconsistent performances, Pioli leaves Milan in second place and qualified for the Champions League for the fourth consecutive time, along with reaching the Supercoppa Italiana Final Four. The club will part ways with Pioli on good terms to honor his contributions, while rumblings of his departure had already begun.
Looking towards the future, discussions with Pioli will determine the terms of his exit, including potential severance agreements. Meanwhile, Milan’s management is eyeing Paulo Fonseca as Pioli’s potential successor, despite mixed reactions from the fans. Fonseca, who recently concluded his contract with Lille, might face challenges in fulfilling Pioli’s scudetto-winning legacy. As the negotiation unfolds in the coming days, all eyes are on how Milan’s next chapter will begin under a new tactician.
