AC Milan`s sporting director, Igli Tare, who was appointed this summer to lead the club into a new phase, recently spoke to the media regarding the upcoming season and the summer transfer market. His appointment follows a challenging previous season where the Rossoneri failed to secure qualification for European competitions. Milan has also seen the return of Massimiliano Allegri as manager, who previously coached the team from 2010 to 2014, securing a Serie A title in the 2010-11 season. Tare shared his views on transfer matters, including the status of American internationals Yunus Musah and Christian Pulisic.
Addressing the situation concerning Yunus Musah, who is reportedly close to leaving the club this summer, Tare provided clarification. “I consider Musah an excellent player,” Tare stated, “but we are looking for player profiles with specific characteristics that align with the tactical approach we are developing alongside coach Allegri. For the three-man midfield system we envision, we require deep-lying midfielders, and Musah`s skillset doesn`t precisely match these particular needs. While he can perform in both two and three-man midfields, the desired qualities are different for this specific project. This is the fundamental reason we are looking to make different additions.”
Tare further outlined the club`s transfer strategy, mentioning key areas for reinforcement. “We are planning to add another midfielder, as well as a striker. We will also bring in a right back and a left back. Should any sales occur, we would then look to strengthen positions like the wingers and central defense, including attacking wingers. Our primary objective is to make the best possible moves for the team to ensure we are strong contenders.”
In stark contrast to Musah`s likely departure, Christian Pulisic`s future at the club appears secure, with both Tare and Allegri considering the American winger a central figure in the team`s plans. Tare confirmed, “Pulisic is expected to be a key player for us next season. I will have the opportunity to discuss his contract renewal with the club CEO, Giorgio Furlani, when the appropriate time comes, but currently, our complete focus is on preparing the team. I believe he was one of our most impactful positive players last season and is now one of the foundational components for the season ahead; he holds a central role within this group.”
Over his two seasons with AC Milan, Musah was deployed in various midfield positions, including central midfield, right-central midfield, and occasionally pushed forward as an attacking winger or even covering at right back. While this adaptability allowed him to accumulate 80 appearances, it arguably prevented him from establishing a consistent, core role within the squad. Christian Pulisic, meanwhile, enjoyed a highly productive campaign, contributing 17 goals and 12 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions and cementing his place as one of Milan`s top performers. However, the article notes that as the 2026 World Cup in his home country approaches, not competing in European tournaments with his club is not an ideal scenario for the USMNT star.
Benedict Kingsley