The management of AC Milan has decided to shake up its workforce. According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, two French pillars of the SCUDETTO 2022 era – Mike Maignan and ThĂ©o Hernandez – will be put on the market this summer. A radical turn for a club in search of renewal, despite the iconic status of this trio.
Théo Hernandez, the weakened icon
The left side, hero of the title of 2022, pays a complicated season and internal tensions. In conflict with management and abused by part of the tifosi, Théo Hernandez (26) sees his contract entering his last year and a half. Milan, refusing to lose it free, prefers to sell it now. Despite its 35 goals and 47 assists in five seasons, its sporting influence is crumbling, as is its emotional link with the club. Several European cadors, including PSG, could seize the opportunity.
Maignan and Leao: a (very) conditional door
Mike Maignan embodies a more nuanced case. The goalkeeper, untouchable since his arrival in 2021, could extend with a wage improvement. But Milan, aware of its value (estimated at € 60 million), does not close the door to a substantial offer. Same scenario for Rafael Leao, however under contract until 2028 with a clause at € 175 million. The Portuguese winger, author of 14 goals this season, remains a jewel, but the Rossonero club admits that an “irresistible offer” would make him bend. A risky strategy, while Portuguese is the only player in the workforce to exceed 10 goals in 2024.
A mercato heavy with symbols
By sacrificing his French, Milan buries the Paolo Maldini era, craftsman of their recruitment. A decision dictated by financial imperatives – the club seeks to balance its accounts -, but also by a need to reconnect with a positive dynamic. It remains to be seen whether the founded funds will be used to build a coherent project … or to fill the debts. Between distrust of supporters and sports uncertainties, post-summer 2024 Milan promises to be unrecognizable.
