AC Milan, a club that symbolizes footballing glory and tradition, is currently managed by a leadership that is eroding its foundations. Gerry Cardinale, the owner of the club through RedBird Capital, and Giorgio Furlani, the CEO, have demonstrated through a series of controversial decisions that they do not understand the responsibilities of managing such a prestigious institution.
Two emblematic decisions highlight this inadequacy: the sale of Sandro Tonali, one of the team’s technical and symbolic pillars, and the dismissal of Paolo Maldini, a living legend of the club. These actions have not only weakened the sporting project but also deeply hurt Milan’s identity and its bond with the fans.
Decisions That Have Undermined the Club’s Identity
* The Sale of Sandro Tonali:
The decision to sell Sandro Tonali to Newcastle United was justified as a financial necessity, but it delivered a severe blow to the team and its supporters. Tonali was not just an irreplaceable technical talent but also a symbol of Milan’s Italian identity and the resurgence project initiated in recent years.
This move highlighted a purely financial perspective, devoid of sensitivity to what it means to build a competitive team aligned with the Rossoneri tradition.
The Dismissal of Paolo Maldini:
If Tonali’s sale raised concerns, the dismissal of Paolo Maldini provoked outright outrage. Maldini is not just a Milan legend but also a symbol of its soul and values. His role as technical director was essential not only for the sporting project but also for preserving the bond between the club and its fans.
This decision sent a clear message: the historical and cultural values of the club are not a priority for this ownership. It has further deepened the rift between the management and the fanbase, exposing a lack of respect for the club’s legacy.
A Leadership That Lacks Clarity and Competence:
In his role as CEO, Giorgio Furlani has failed to provide clear and coherent direction. His management decisions reflect a fragmented vision, lacking a long-term strategy.
The absence of transparent communication and a project that unites all components of the club – from the team to the fans – has created an atmosphere of uncertainty that hampers any progress. This leadership is falling short of the expectations for a club that aspires to compete at the highest levels.
Betrayed Fans and a Deepening Divide:
Milan fans, known for their passion and loyalty, feel betrayed by a management that has disregarded their expectations and values. The Curva Sud, a symbol of the Rossoneri fanbase, has repeatedly voiced its dissatisfaction through chants and banners calling for respect and change.
The decisions made by the ownership have created a profound rift between the club and its supporters, a wound that can only be healed through a radical change in management.
Why Selling the Club Is the Best Solution:
- 1) Respect for the Club’s History: New ownership could recognize and honor Milan’s historical symbols and values.
- 2) Competence and Vision: The club needs leadership with footballing expertise and a clear long-term strategy.
- 3) Reconciliation with the Fans: A transition in ownership could rebuild trust with the fanbase and restore faith in the Rossoneri community.
- 4) Sporting and Global Revival: Only with adequate management can Milan return to competing at the highest levels.
A Necessary Act of Responsibility:
Gerry Cardinale and Giorgio Furlani must acknowledge that their decisions are jeopardizing Milan’s future. Selling the club to a party that is capable of respecting its legacy and building a successful project would be an act of great responsibility.
AC Milan deserves better. It deserves leadership that understands its essence and works tirelessly to restore it to the pinnacle of world football. For this reason, the message is clear: the owner must respect the club and the fans and sell AC Milan.
Article by Sultan Al Shammari / @SULTANO_91
