Massimiliano Allegri has stated that Milan’s target is to secure a Champions League spot by the 2025-26 season, revealing that he swiftly accepted the coaching position after discussions with Igli Tare and Giorgio Furlani.
Allegri was formally introduced in a press conference on Monday, July 7, 2025, as he kicks off the pre-season preparations at Milanello.
He has committed to a two-year contract, marking his return to San Siro after an 11-year hiatus.
“I’m thrilled to be here. Today marks the beginning of a journey aimed at achieving great success,” Allegri expressed via Milannews.
“To achieve our goals, unity is key. We must take responsibility as members of an esteemed club like Milan, working closely with the directors. A fantastic journey is about to commence, and I’m genuinely excited,” he added.
Allegri: ‘My role is to optimize player performance’
“My objective is to create the best conditions for players to shine. We need to present a united front. Milan possesses an excellent squad, and the club is attentive to all aspects. The aim is to be in peak condition by August 31, as the first half of the season is crucial for the March outcomes,” Allegri noted.
“Our primary goal is to return to the Champions League; we need to occupy those positions by March.”
The Rossoneri will not participate in European competitions for the 2025-26 season, kicking off their campaign on August 17 with a Coppa Italia face-off against Bari.
“At Milan, we must consistently strive for greatness and not accept mediocrity. Success in the league requires dedication, accumulating points, scoring goals, and minimizing concessions. Goal difference is critical in Italian football—a concept ingrained in me since childhood,” Allegri stated.
“It’s not merely about securing narrow wins; we need to focus on doing well, starting strong, and reinstating Milan in the Champions League. This collective mindset will be crucial, supported by our daily efforts, beginning with my own. I am very optimistic.”
Both Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceiçao faced dismissals in the prior season, and with Tare’s recent appointment as sporting director, Allegri was his priority hire.
Allegri accepted Milan job in just one hour
“Upon being contacted by Tare and Furlani, I met with them immediately,” Allegri said.
“I felt an immediate enthusiasm, and within an hour, we came to an agreement to embark on this adventure together. I am thrilled with the decision I made.”
“I discovered a club with clearly defined roles, which is vital,” he added.
“I haven’t crossed paths with Ibra yet. After the announcement, we had a conversation,” Allegri remarked, noting Ibra’s transition from player to executive role.
Milan has recently signed Samuele Ricci and is nearing a deal for Luka Modric, while Tijjani Reijnders has moved to Manchester City and Theo Hernandez is headed to Al-Hilal.
“We review potential opportunities daily. We have 25 outfield players, and I am content. Progress will be slow and deliberate,” Allegri concluded.
“Our first match is on August 17 in the Coppa Italia, a knockout game that will aid our preparation. We start with ten players on the pitch, and we’ll build from there.”
Mike Maignan was in discussions with Chelsea in June, but an agreement was not reached, and he did not insist on leaving. His contract runs until June 2026.
“I’m delighted he chose to remain,” Allegri commented. “He’s the captain, an international talent, and one of the finest in the world. Kudos to the club for persuading him to stay. I’m confident Leao will have an exceptional season.”
Rafael Leao has not engaged in serious discussions with any clubs this summer, and Allegri believes he will stay. “I have faith in him. Players generally attain maturity between 26 and 30. I see him growing more responsible,” Allegri stated.
“I spoke to him this morning, and I believe everything is in place for a successful season. He needs a comprehensive view of the game. Leao possesses extraordinary capabilities, as do Loftus, Ricci, Tomori, and Jimenez. My aim is to position them for optimal performance.”
On potential midfield acquisitions, including Modric, Allegri said: “We’ll assess his arrival when it happens. He’s an exceptional player. Alongside Ricci and Loftus-Cheek, who netted 12 goals two seasons ago, we have other talented individuals. We plan to play with three midfielders and will tailor our setup to maximize their strengths.”
Lastly, Allegri was asked about Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, a target for Milan and one of his former players, but he was not inclined to divulge specific details about Milan’s strategy for full-back positions.
“Vlahovic is a fantastic talent. He joined us at Juventus from Fiorentina at a young age. While I don’t focus heavily on statistics, certain figures are undeniable. In the past 20 years, only once has the league not been won by the team with the strongest defense. A top team finds the net 60 to 80 times, and if you concede 40 goals, finishing among the top four becomes impossible,” Allegri emphasized.
“Jimenez is capable of playing at full-back, and Bartesaghi is an intriguing prospect. The Director has time to finalize decisions. We have four centre-backs; Gabbia exemplifies positive behavior and attitude,” he concluded.
