At the press conference on the eve of Genoa–Milan, Allegri did not avoid any questions from journalists. The body language of the ex Juventus coach today is certainly different compared to a few weeks ago: more closed off, tense, and with a serious expression.
Regarding the verbal clash with Ibrahimović, which has been widely written about and discussed during the week, there were no denials, but rather a predictable attempt to reframe everything as normal professional debate, where it is absolutely normal to have deeply different ideas and visions.
Particularly interesting was also the passage about the interviews given to those at Corriere della Sera and Gazzetta dello Sport by RedBird owner Gerry Cardinale:
“The words of Cardinale only pleased me. I had spoken with him recently and I had given him my point of view on the season and on the future of Milan, which is what matters to everyone.”
Allegri confirmed a clear line on the ownership’s actions, which decided to hold individual talks with everyone, from management to the coaching staff, before making final decisions.
The direct meeting between Cardinale and Allegri had taken place on 27 April, writes CalcioMercato.com the day after one of Milan’s worst performances of the season in the goalless draw at San Siro against Juventus. The ownership’s message to the coaching staff was divided into two phases: the first was recognition of the work done to bring unity back to the environment, instilling values and positivity, as well as satisfaction at having won both derbies. The other side of the same coin was strong dissatisfaction with the management of the second half of the season, the long run of poor results, and the lack of growth in performances. The Scudetto was not discussed, also because Cardinale had not asked for the title to be won last summer.
The first to acknowledge the mistakes of Milan’s second half of the season is Allegri himself, clearly disappointed by the 25 points collected compared to 43 in the first half of the season. Max laid everything on the owner’s table, analysing what went wrong and also reiterating the difficulties of a January transfer window with zero spending. The Italian coach explained his full belief that he can relaunch the club to high, if not very high, levels, provided that everyone, from the CEO to the sporting director, follows the same direction without disputes or personal agendas.
Allegri understands the need to sign young talents who can create value not only in sporting terms but also economically, provided they arrive alongside five ready-made signings, both in terms of physical readiness and experience.
In recent days Allegri has sensed an atmosphere of distrust towards him, which however is not affecting his determination to steer the ship towards the safe harbour of Champions League qualification. As an experienced coach, Max knows that his position would become stronger with fourth place secured before the final meeting with Cardinale, expected in 10–15 days. According to sources close to the coach, one certainty exists in a very tense climate: among the options being considered, resignation at the end of the season is not one of them.
