AC Milan Considers Tactical Overhaul

AC Milan legend Alessandro Costacurta has called on his former club to emulate Atalanta’s high-intensity style after a disappointing 2024–25 campaign that saw the Rossoneri miss out on European competition for the first time since 2019–20.

1. A Season to Forget

Despite lifting the Supercoppa Italiana in January, Milan’s season unraveled quickly: a shock defeat in the Coppa Italia final and a ninth-place Serie A finish left both fans and management reeling. The club’s decision-makers, led by new owner Gerry Cardinale, now face tough calls on appointing a sporting director and plotting a course back to the summit.

2. Milan Urged to Follow Example from Serie A Club

Costacurta—five-time Champions League winner with Milan—stressed that investment alone isn’t enough. Pointing to Atalanta’s consistent success under Gian Piero Gasperini, he said:

“Milan urged to follow example from Serie A club and embrace a relentless press and attacking philosophy if they want to compete at the highest level.”

3. The Sporting Director Dilemma

With the Sporting Director role vacant, Milan must choose someone who “truly understands football.” This appointment will set the tone for recruitment, youth integration, and the club’s long-term playing identity—areas where Atalanta have excelled, turning academy prospects into first-team regulars.

4. Learning from Atalanta’s Model

Atalanta’s blend of tactical rigor, fluid attacking patterns, and pressing intensity has delivered Champions League football in five of the last seven seasons. Even as Gasperini weighs a contract extension through 2026, his methods remain a blueprint for clubs aiming to compete at the highest level without Milan’s financial firepower.

5. Fan Frustration and Hope

Supporters have been vocal about their impatience, demanding clear direction for 2025–26. Costacurta’s vision of a Milan that presses relentlessly and plays with attacking verve offers both a rallying cry and a practical roadmap for a club desperate to reclaim its place among Europe’s elite.

Conclusion

As AC Milan evaluates its options this summer, the call that “Milan urged to follow example from Serie A club” resonates throughout the club hierarchy. Whether through marquee signings or a full tactical overhaul, adopting Atalanta’s model could reignite belief and set the Rossoneri on the path back to glory.