Allegri sets Milan target for 2025-26, accepted job in ‘one hour’
Massimiliano Allegri says Milan must aim for a Champions League placement in 2025-26 and reveals he accepted the offer quickly after sitting down for negotiations with Igli Tare and Giorgio Furlani.
Allegri was unveiled at a press conference on Monday.
His Milan side begin the pre-season preparation in Milanello today, Monday, July 7, 2025.
Allegri has signed a two-year contract, returning to San Siro after 11 years.
“I’m happy to be here in front of you. Today, we begin this adventure, where we aim to achieve great satisfaction,” Allegri said via Milannews.
“To achieve results, we must be united, moving in a single direction, with the responsibility of being part of a prestigious club like Milan. We share day-to-day operations with the directors and other members. A fantastic journey begins now. I’m very happy and excited,” he continued.
Allegri: ‘My job is to put the players in the best conditions’
“My job is to put the players in the best conditions to deliver strong performances. The club must be a united force, and I’m sure it will be. Milan have an excellent squad, and the club is monitoring everything. What matters is to reach August 31 in the best possible shape. The first six months are crucial for preparing for March, when the seasons are determined.
“The first goal is to return to the Champions League; we need to be in those spots in March.”
The Rossoneri will not be involved in any European competition in 2025-26 and will begin the season on August 17 with a Coppa Italia match against Bari.
“At Milan, we must always aim for the top and never settle. Working with great dedication, especially in the league where you need to maintain cruise speed. You need a certain number of points, score goals, and concede fewer. Goal difference has always mattered in Italian football, they’ve drilled that into me since I was a kid,” Allegri said.
“It’s not about narrow wins, everyone’s goal is to work well, start strong and bring Milan back to the Champions League. That must be everyone’s mindset, and we’ll only get there through daily work, starting with me. I’m very confident.”
Both Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceiçao could not avoid being sacked in 2024-25, and when Tare was appointed as the new sporting director, Allegri was the very first name on his agenda.
Allegri accepted Milan job in one hour
“When Tare and Furlani called, I met them immediately,” said Allegri.
“I was very enthusiastic, and in just one hour we agreed to start this adventure together. I’m very happy with the choice I made.
“What I’ve found is a club with clearly defined roles, which is essential.
“I haven’t seen Ibra yet. Once his appointment was official, we spoke,” continued Allegri.
“We’re happy, he was an incredible player and is now starting as an executive. As Furlani said, he’s a consultant to ownership and must be an example to all players. Theo made a different choice, he’s a great player and I wish him the best.”
Milan have already welcomed Samuele Ricci and are on the verge of signing Luka Modric, while Tijjani Reijnders has moved to Manchester City and Theo Hernandez is on his way to Al-Hilal.
“We discuss opportunities daily. We have 25 outfield players and I’m happy. Things need to be done slowly and carefully,” Allegri said.
“The first game is August 17 in the Coppa Italia, a knockout game that will help us prepare for the game. Let’s start by putting 10 players on the pitch and we’ll go from there.”
Mike Maignan was in talks with Chelsea in June, but the two clubs didn’t reach an agreement, and the Frenchman didn’t force to leave. His contract expires in June 2026.
“I’m very happy he chose to stay,” said Allegri.
“He’s the team’s captain, an international player, one of the best in the world. Credit to the club for convincing him to stay. I’m sure Leao will have a great season.”
Rafael Leao has never been in advanced talks with any club so far this summer, and Allegri expects him to stay.
“I believe in him. He’s reaching his peak years as players usually hit maturity between 26 and 30. I think he’s becoming more responsible,” said Allegri.
“I spoke to him this morning and I believe everything’s in place for a great season.
“He needs 360-degree vision. Leao has extraordinary qualities, so do Loftus, Ricci, Tomori, and Jimenez. I must put them in the best position to perform.”
As for Milan’s moves in midfield, including Modric’s transfer, Allegri said: “We’ll see when he arrives. He’s an extraordinary player. We also have Ricci, Loftus-Cheek, who scored 12 goals two years ago, as well as Fofana, Bondo, and Musah. We have excellent players. We’ll play with three in midfield and set up according to their characteristics, aiming to get the best out of them.”
Last but not least, Allegri was asked about his thoughts on Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, a Milan target and one of his former players at Juventus, as well as Milan’s transfer strategy for the full-back positions. However, the Italian was not eager to reveal any details.
“Vlahovic is a fantastic kid. He came to us [Juventus] at a very young age from Fiorentina. I’m not big on stats, but some numbers can’t be ignored. In the last 20 years, only once has the league not been won by the team with the best defence. Sarri’s Juve, who conceded 43 goals. A top team scores 60 to 80 goals and if you concede 40, you won’t finish in the top four.
“Jimenez can play full-back and Bartesaghi is an interesting talent. The Director has time to sort things out. We have four centre-backs, Gabbia is a role model in behaviour and attitude.”