The separation between AC Milan and Stefano Pioli had been anticipated for some time, but the Rossoneri club officially announced it through a statement on their website yesterday on Friday.
Paulo Fonseca remains the favourite to replace him, with Milan convinced of his suitability after evaluating other candidates. Fonseca is set to receive a three-year contract worth around 3 million euros net per season. Meanwhile, the match against Salernitana at San Siro will be an opportunity to bid farewell to the Emilia-born coach, who deserves credit for making the Rossoneri competitive again in Italy and Europe, as relayed via Calciomercato.com.
Many players coached by Stefano Pioli have paid tribute to the former Inter, Lazio, and Fiorentina coach, but among all the key players of the last five years at Milan, one was notably absent from the farewell messages.
We are talking about Rafael Leao, Milan’s number 10 and Portuguese winger, who, just hours before the last match of the season against Salernitana, thanked Stefano Pioli, who will leave the Rossoneri club after tonight's game.
Here is his message to the coach:
"Thank you for everything, mister. After 12 years, you brought immense joy to all the Rossoneri fans, and as a result, your name has entered Milan's history! Thank you for helping me make my name in elite football and secure an important place in this great club! I will always be grateful to you."
