Milan Press Pause on Lopetegui Due to Fan Dissent

Milan seem willing to listen to their supporters and are having second thoughts about hiring Julen Lopetegui. The Spanish gaffer is the only one their brass has had concrete talks so far. He’s held in high regard by their execs for his international experience and ability to groom youngsters. But the brass could move on given the circumstances, La Gazzetta dello Sport informs.

The Rossoneri will examine and probe a few different coaches. Even though their faithful are clamoring for Antonio Conte, he’s not in their crosshairs. His wages, scheme, rough personality, and likely big transfer market demands represent significant hurdles.

In addition to Lopetegui, Milan are eyeing Paulo Fonseca and Mark van Bommel, who are bound to leave Lille and Antwerp. The former midfielder is particularly close to Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The two won the Scudetto together back in 2021.

The latest addition to their shortlist is Roberto De Zerbi, but it’s not an easy chase. He appears destined to continue in the Premier League because of a €15M release clause. Brighton are unlikely to free him from his contract gratis.

Our Take on Milan and Lopetegui

He’s an okay coach, but it has always felt like he was in pole position because he was the easiest to sign. De Zerbi would be ideal, and he’s reportedly a lifelong fan, but they’d have to make a big investment to hire him. It’d be unprecedented for a coach in Serie A but would send the right signal.