AC Milan icon Alessandro Costacurta suggests the club should adopt Atalanta`s tactical approach to regain competitiveness after a disappointing season.
Although Milan secured the Supercoppa Italiana in January, the 2024-25 season offered little other success. They were runners-up in the Coppa Italia and missed out on European qualification.
The club`s management, including owner Gerry Cardinale, is currently planning the next steps for the upcoming season, which involves appointing a new sporting director.
Milan supporters are expressing strong dissatisfaction with the club`s leadership and hope for significant changes in the 2025-26 season, aiming for a return to title contention.
Club legend Costacurta, a five-time Champions League winner with Milan, shared his thoughts on the team`s recent performance and offered advice for the future.
Reflecting on tough seasons, he mentioned, “I finished ninth once and tenth another time.”
“It was difficult, but these things can occur,” he stated. “I think the concerning part is that the Milan hierarchy and players put in effort this year, but the results didn`t materialize despite investing well in key players during January.”
This marks the first time since the 2019-20 season that Milan will not participate in any European competition.
“This absence from Europe will hinder their ability to compete at the top again,” he added. “The most crucial decision ahead is selecting a sporting director – someone who possesses a deep understanding of football.”
Costacurta concluded, “I would like to see a Milan team that employs a high press, both at home and away. I envision a Milan playing with a similar style to Atalanta.”
“Many elements were lacking for the Rossoneri this year,” he noted, “but attitude was perhaps the most significant.”
Meanwhile, Atalanta recently offered their manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, a contract extension beyond his current deal, which expires in June 2026.
The experienced coach had previously indicated he wouldn`t extend his stay with La Dea, though recent reports suggest he might reconsider.
Gasperini clarified in April, “I never stated I was leaving. What I said was that I wouldn`t extend my contract, which is distinct.”
“Currently, our sole focus is qualifying for the Champions League,” he added. “That`s a goal achieved over months and years, not just one season. I feel a strong connection to Bergamo and Atalanta. People sometimes overlook the players we`ve lost to injuries, but overall, things are positive; we just need to end the season well.”
Atalanta has now successfully qualified for the Champions League, marking their fifth appearance in Europe`s premier competition over the past seven years.
