Allegri emerges as candidate for Italy job amid Milan uncertainty
Massimiliano Allegri has emerged as a leading contender to become the next head coach of the Italian national team, according to reports in Italy. The AC Milan manager's future at the club is under scrutiny, with his potential availability coinciding with the Italian Football Federation's search for a new boss ahead of crucial elections in June.
Allegri is now considered to be in a direct race with Napoli's Antonio Conte for the role, with former Italy manager Roberto Mancini also a free agent but viewed as an outsider. The situation hinges on Allegri's standing at Milan, where his contract includes an automatic extension until 2028 should the club qualify for the Champions League this season. However, the manager's relationship with the club's hierarchy could be tested by summer transfer plans.
According to Italian media, Allegri will demand greater decision-making power over player recruitment if Milan secures a top-four finish. He is expected to push for significant investment in players with a proven winning mentality, aligning with his tactical vision. Should the club's market ambitions fail to meet his expectations, a separation—despite Milan's public desire to continue with him—could become a possibility, opening the door for a national team approach.
The federation's presidential election on June 22nd is seen as a key deadline, after which the plans of both Allegri and Conte will be clearer. Conte has reportedly shown interest in a return to the Italy job, and Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has not ruled out his departure. This sets the stage for a competition between two of Italy's most decorated active managers for the prestigious position.
For Allegri, the national team role presents a distinct challenge. It would offer freedom from the transfer market constraints of club management but also lack the daily rhythm of training he missed during his previous sabbaticals after leaving Juventus. He would inherit a squad containing several players he has previously coached, a familiarity Conte would also enjoy. The successful candidate is expected to receive a two-year contract, renewable for a further two years should Italy qualify for Euro 2028, with the overarching mission of avoiding a fourth consecutive World Cup absence in 2030.
Milan's leadership, led by owner Gerry Cardinale, is currently planning for next season with Allegri in mind, including a pre-season tour and targeted reinforcements. Club sources strongly dismiss the idea of releasing him, especially after the federation's election date. Yet, the allure of the national team, described as a fascinating challenge for any coach, introduces a significant variable into what promises to be a complex and evolving situation throughout the spring.
