Milan expert says Conte’s name ‘circulates again’ to replace Conceicao

epa11834807 Napoli’s coach Antonio Conte looks on during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Atalanta BC and SSC Napoli in Bergamo, Italy, 18 January 2025. EPA-EFE/MICHELE MARAVIGLIA

La Gazzetta dello Sport’s Milan correspondent Luca Bianchin claims that Antonio Conte’s name has been ‘circulating again’ over the last few days as the Rossoneri consider options to replace Sergio Conceiçao in the summer.

Milan will likely part ways with Conceiçao at the end of the season if the Portuguese does not achieve a top-four finish.

Milan transfer reporter Luca Bianchin said Conte could be one of the candidates if the Rossoneri change their third coach in a year at the end of the season.

Milan expert says Conte’s name ‘circulates again’ to replace Conceicao

“Conte’s name has been circulating again in the last two days,” Bianchin said.

“I’m not saying something is going on, but after hearing his words, which sound like a breakup with Napoli, the whole picture makes sense again.

“Milan snubbed Conte in the summer, even though he had politely offered himself. In the current situation, both parties have common needs. Then Milan will have to hire a new sports director. Perhaps they don’t even know who they’ll get, let alone the coach, but some thoughts have started.

“It’s a talking point, but nothing is happening still.”

RedBird Advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic said in the summer that Milan had not considered hiring Conte, opting to go for Paulo Fonseca.

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini has also been linked with the Rossoneri, but according to Bianchin, Conte would be a better fit.

“Conte is more of a guarantee. I’m an admirer of Gasperini, but Conte seems to be the person who can fix what Milan need,” the journalist argued.

“Gasperini is fascinating, but there are question marks. He’s never been tested at these levels if we don’t consider the Inter experience where he was rejected by ‘senators’ on day one.

“Milan already took risks with foreign coaches, and perhaps they’ll be unwilling to take further risks with an Italian coach who has never coached a top club.”

Conte is contracted with Napoli until June 2027. The ex-Juventus and Inter coach signed with the Partenopei last summer.

Napoli currently sit second in the Serie A table, one point below their next Serie A rivals Inter.