New Milan Coach Sergio Conceicao Aims for Champions League Qualification
Sergio Conceicao, newly appointed as AC Milan’s manager, has set his sights on securing a top-four finish in Serie A, ensuring a return to the Champions League for the seven-time winners. Conceicao takes over from Paulo Fonseca, who was dismissed on Monday after six inconsistent months in charge.
Milan currently sits eighth in Serie A with 27 points from 17 games, trailing the top four by eight points. They are also five points behind Juventus, who occupy the last European qualifying spot. Despite the challenges, Conceicao is optimistic about turning the season around.
"We all want one thing: for Milan to return to the Champions League. We are Milan," he stated during his first press conference. "If I’m here, it’s not a good sign—it means something didn’t go well. But we don’t complain and don’t make excuses."
Conceicao’s debut match will be a high-stakes Italian Super Cup semifinal against Juventus in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Friday. Reflecting on the task ahead, he emphasized the importance of maximum effort from every player. "Pressure is part of football, especially at a big club like Milan," he said.
The 50-year-old coach also avoided speculation about January transfers, preferring to focus on understanding his current squad, from senior players to youth prospects. "It’s not fair to speak about the market before knowing the players," he remarked.
Ibrahimovic’s Apology
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, senior advisor and former Milan player, spoke before Conceicao’s unveiling, thanking Fonseca for his professionalism and apologizing for a mishandling of his dismissal.
"We made a mistake by sending Fonseca to the press conference after the 1-1 draw with Roma, knowing he had been dismissed," Ibrahimovic admitted. "I apologise to Paulo and the fans."
Ibrahimovic also acknowledged fans' frustrations and emphasized collective responsibility for achieving Milan’s goals, including winning the Supercoppa. "We won’t be satisfied until we achieve our objectives," he concluded.
Conceicao’s arrival marks a critical juncture for Milan as they seek to rebuild their season and restore their status as a European powerhouse.
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