Despite a series of unfortunate results among other factors that have turned a large section of the AC Milan fanbase against owner Gerry Cardinale over the past four seasons, it can no longer be denied that the American businessman has completely changed his approach. That does not mean that two signings in the transfer market and a couple of visits to Milanello are enough to erase the doubts that have emerged over the years about his leadership. However, it is an undeniable fact that his attitude has shifted. Whether this becomes the foundation for a new winning era, or at least a stable and competitive one, or merely another gamble destined to fail over time, remains to be seen.
Cardinale changes his approach at Milan:
One of the most common criticisms Milan supporters have levelled at Gerry Cardinale is that he talks a great deal but delivers very little. His public statements have certainly not decreased (in fact, they have probably become even more frequent in recent weeks) but this time they have been accompanied by concrete actions. He personally took charge of the search for the club's new head coach and coaching staff (setting aside the controversial process and outcomes of both appointments). He has also played an active role in this summer's transfer market alongside the club's new management team at Milanello. On top of that, he stood alongside Amorim during his introductory press conference, welcomed him on his arrival at Milanello, and returned the following day to greet the squad as pre-season training officially began. These are precisely the kind of actions Milan supporters had been asking to see for a long time. Previously, Cardinale's limited presence only fuelled the claims of those who accused him of buying the club solely for financial reasons, particularly with a view to the new stadium project.
Cardinale is working on restoring the supporters' trust and faith
The average Milan supporter has been left disillusioned by Gerry Cardinale. There are, of course, exceptions, but the prevailing feeling is one of frustration and difficulty in understanding the way the club has been managed over the past four years. Objectively, it is hard to blame those who remain unconvinced. RedBird took over a Milan side that had just won the Serie A title and has since overseen the club missing out on the Champions League for two consecutive seasons. That, too, is an undeniable fact.
It is precisely because supporters' trust has been damaged time and again that many still struggle to place their faith in Gerry Cardinale, despite the undeniable efforts and positive steps he has taken in recent months. This transfer window will not be judged solely on the arrivals of Ramos and Gila; its true assessment will come at the end of the summer and, more importantly, over the months that follow. Likewise, appointing a coach such as Ruben Amorim on its own will not be enough to win supporters back. The results on the pitch must validate the vision behind this new Milan project.
In the end, there is only one judge whose verdict truly matters and ultimately shapes the mood of the supporters: the football itself. So, while it is encouraging that Cardinale has finally become actively involved after four years, it is still wiser to reserve judgement, whether favourable or critical, until there is more evidence to assess.
