Sergio Conceiçao spent Sunday in Switzerland, closely watching his son Rodrigo playing as a full-back for Zurich in the league match against Young Boys. Meanwhile, four hours away by car, Milan was experiencing a surreal situation, with ultras on strike and the winless streak continuing.
The ultras' strike, among other issues, is also due to the choice of coach, deemed contrary to the words of President Grry Cardinale, who declared not long ago his desire for a winning Milan in the long term.
Julen Lopetegui wasn't considered suitable; Antonio Conte is, but not for the management who have different objectives. Sergio Conceiçao, on the other hand, could be a compromise that everyone agrees on. But, he is under contract with Porto. Formally, the coach is tied to the club until 2028, but with a change in presidency, the scenario could change.
Tomorrow, André Villas-Boas will officially be appointed as Porto's president. He has already stated he wants to speak with Conceiçao to understand if there are grounds to continue together. It's not certain: Conceiçao had immense power under Pinto da Costa's management, but it's uncertain if he'll have the same under the new leadership. In fact, it seems he might have to compromise, which could be an advantage for Milan.
Since 2017 at Porto, Conceiçao aims for the next step, not for money but to compete at a higher level in European football. After winning everything domestically and being the most successful coach in Porto's 130-year history, the seven years weigh heavier, especially with Pinto da Costa's departure, a president he supported for reelection.
"I dream of returning to Italy", he said at the beginning of his coaching experience at Porto. His five and a half years as a player in Serie A have already prepared him for a future as a coach in Italy. He lacks nothing. He has experience, charisma, and a clear playing style. 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1, intense and aggressive football. No tiki-taka, just simple and dynamic offensive maneuvers; players are expected to work defensively, no exceptions. High pressing. A recipe that has borne fruit not only domestically but has also proven tremendously effective in Europe.
Just think, a team like Porto almost always advances from the Champions League group stage, reaching the quarter-finals a couple of times. And often making Italian teams cry: ask Juventus, Roma. And even Milan, relegated to the bottom of the group of death in the 2021/22 edition, just behind the Portuguese side.
Source: Milan News
