A New era at AC Milan: Global changes in the team during the final hours of the transfer window
The winter transfer window has marked a true period of change for AC Milan. Under the leadership of Portuguese coach Sérgio Conceição, the team underwent a major transformation aimed at strengthening key positions and rejuvenating the squad. The transfer window results included high-profile signings, unexpected departures, and a strategic approach to shaping the squad’s future.
Major Changes at Milan
In the final two days of the transfer window, Conceição carried out a true revolution. The Rossoneri parted ways with several key players while bringing in experienced footballers and promising young talents. Among those who left were Álvaro Morata, Davide Calabria, and Ismaël Bennacer. Many of these departures stemmed from disagreements with the new head coach, who demands full commitment and readiness for change.
Morata and Calabria left due to conflicts with the coach, followed shortly by Bennacer for similar reasons. Replacements included the experienced Kyle Walker, as well as promising talents Santiago Giménez and Warren Bondo.
Walker is expected to be a starter, especially since fellow right-back Emerson Royal is injured. Giménez will take Morata’s spot as the main striker, while Bondo will serve as the primary backup for Fofana and Reijnders in midfield. Bennacer was unwilling to accept a substitute role, but for the 21-year-old Bondo, this is an ideal opportunity. The French midfielder impressed at Monza and earned a move to a bigger club.
Additionally, Italian winger Riccardo Sottil was signed to fulfill squad registration requirements after Calabria's departure. Though he is not expected to be a regular starter, he will act as a backup for Rafael Leão following Noah Okafor’s move to Napoli.
The role of João Félix remains uncertain. Conceição might transition to a 4-4-2 formation, with Félix playing as a second striker alongside Santiago Giménez, while Leão and Pulisic operate on the wings. This setup would leave Fofana and Reijnders in central midfield. While the system appears overly attacking and imbalanced, it could help the team in comebacks when needed.
Arrivals:
- Santiago Giménez – €32M + bonuses
- Kyle Walker – Loan until the end of the season with a purchase option
- Warren Bondo – €10M
- João Félix – Loan until the end of the season (no purchase option)
- Riccardo Sottil – Loan until the end of the season with a purchase option
Departures:
- Álvaro Morata to Galatasaray – Loan with an obligation to buy
- Davide Calabria to Bologna – €1M
- Noah Okafor to Napoli – Loan with a purchase option
- Ismaël Bennacer to Marseille – Loan with a purchase option
- Luka Romero to Cruz Azul – €3.5M
- Fodé Ballo-Touré to Le Havre – Free agent
- Hugo Cuenca to Genoa – Free agent
- Marco Pellegrino to Huracán – Loan with a purchase option
- Kevin Zeroli to Monza – Loan
The total expenses amounted to €48.5M, while the club earned €11.8M from player sales. Factoring in future payments from mandatory purchase clauses and bonuses, Milan has minimized financial losses, demonstrating a well-balanced approach.
Key Transfers
João Félix – Creative Attacking Reinforcement
One of the most high-profile transfers was the signing of João Félix. The Portuguese forward, who struggled to shine at Chelsea, now has a chance to revive his career at Milan. Félix was welcomed by fans at Malpensa Airport and soon signed his contract with the club. In his first interview, he stated:
"I’m very happy to join such a great club. I will give my all to help the team succeed."
His creativity and technical skills could significantly enhance Milan’s attacking potential.
Santiago Giménez – The New Attacking Leader
Mexican striker Santiago Giménez joined from Feyenoord for €32M. He will be Milan’s main striker, replacing Morata. Known for his strong presence in the box, Giménez fits perfectly into Conceição’s attacking strategy.
Kyle Walker – Defensive Stability
To strengthen the right-back position, Milan signed Kyle Walker on loan from Manchester City. The experienced defender will cover a crucial position, especially given Emerson Royal’s injury.
Warren Bondo – A Bet for the Future
French midfielder Warren Bondo arrived from Monza for €10M. Known for his technical ability and vision, he will be an important part of the squad rotation. His 4.5-year contract confirms Milan’s long-term plans for his development.
Riccardo Sottil – Fulfilling Italian Squad Quota
To comply with domestic player registration rules, Milan signed Riccardo Sottil from Fiorentina. While not expected to be a key player, he will serve as backup for Rafael Leão.
Bennacer vs. Conceição Conflict
Ismaël Bennacer’s departure was unexpected. The midfielder could not accept a reduced role and clashed with the coach. The conflict peaked during the Milan derby, when Bennacer was substituted for Álex Jiménez. As a result, he left on loan to Marseille.
Tactical Evolution
With the new squad in place, Sérgio Conceição plans to implement a 4-4-2 formation:
- Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
- Defense: Theo Hernández, Pavlović, Tomori, Walker
- Midfield: Leão, Fofana, Reijnders, Pulisic
- Attack: João Félix, Santiago Giménez
This setup is risky but maximizes Milan’s attacking potential. The presence of two strikers and dynamic wingers could make the team more versatile in attack.
With the winter window closed, Milan’s management is already preparing for summer transfers. Their primary target is Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci. Negotiations are actively underway, and a deal is expected soon.
Final Thoughts
Milan’s winter transfer campaign was bold and strategic. The revamped squad provides hope for a strong finish to the season and a return to the top of Serie A and European football. Will the new signings meet expectations and restore Milan’s former glory? The remainder of the season will provide the answer.
Currently, Milan sits in 8th place in Serie A. The team also faces a Champions League knockout round clash against Feyenoord and a Coppa Italia match against Roma.