Arrigo Sacchi, former AC Mian's legendary coach wrote the following words for La Gazzetta dello Sport, as he discussed the club's situation and the transfer market. Here's what he thinks.
On the many departures in the last month:
"I believe that the executives who are currently working have a project in mind, at least I hope so. In that case, it's right to let them work and judge later. The important thing is that, beyond the rumors, there are ideas. Those are what really matter."
On Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara:
"Taking Maldini and Massara, who have been key figures recently, out of the equation was a big risk for the club. If someone had told me two years ago that Milan would win a Serie A title and reach the Champions League semifinals, I would have immediately signed up because the financial investments were not excessively high. Now let's see what they can build, always being mindful of the balance sheets."
On Sandro Tonali, Sacchi said:
"Certain figures are indispensable for a club like Milan. But there's no need to despair. You will see that they will focus on young players, perhaps not big-name ones, and try to emulate Napoli. Let's not forget that Napoli won the league title after selling Koulibaly, Insigne, Mertens, and Fabian Ruiz, the four most famous players."
On Ruben Loftus-Cheek:
"He is a physically strong player who moves a lot, and in today's football, movement is crucial. Moreover, he already has decent international experience, and this can help the entire group to grow."
On Gianluca Scamacca:
"I know him well; he's a very talented guy. He has great potential that, unfortunately, he doesn't always manage to express. He has a good shot, is powerful, and physically strong, although he still needs to improve his movement. Pressing and involvement in the play are the aspects he needs to work on. He needs to make a leap in terms of character. He's coming off a so-so season, so it's a gamble. I hope he understands that he's facing an important opportunity that doesn't come every day: he should give his all to break through, play with and for the team, in all areas and at all times. Then he will have no regrets."
On Charles De Ketelaere:
"Ah, who knows... I hope so; we have seen some qualities. Adapting to Serie A is always complicated for foreigners. Even someone like Platini, who was a superstar, had difficulties. Even an established champion like Rummenigge struggled in his first year in Italy. If Milan believes in this guy, it's right that they continue with him, and he needs to understand that the time has come to show his worth."
Milan, never wasteful in negotiations:
"The correct strategy. Winning by going into debt, in my opinion, is cheating. The Americans pay great attention to financial matters, and I agree with this approach. It's time for ideas to prevail over money because in the world, you will always find someone richer than you who tries to snatch away a player. But if you have a project, you're already one step ahead."
On Pioli and the full powers he will have:
"I remember what Carlo Ancelotti said about me: 'He was so convinced of what he proposed that, in the end, we all believed him.' Well, Pioli will have to emphasize persuasion; he will have to be determined and get all his players to follow him. And he must choose a tactical path and stick to it without hesitation or second thoughts, as happened at a certain point last season. Set a direction and move forward together toward the goal: that's what the project should be."
Sacchi on the fans wanting a big move:
"Fans should always remember that the game comes before the players. Even a great champion struggles without a game plan. Milan won the league title without big names; they entertained, thrilled, and engaged the people. That should be the reference point. Playing well, having team spirit, group ethics, and strong motivations are essential qualities if you want to go far. And Stefano Pioli, an intelligent coach, knows these secrets."
