Oliver Glasner has spent the days following Wednesday’s Conference League victory analyzing the AC Milan squad, rather than celebrating, according to reports in Italy. The Austrian manager is preparing for upcoming talks with club owner Gerry Cardinale and the Milan leadership. Glasner aims to arrive with a clear understanding of the issues from the previous season and a vision for revitalizing the team, focusing on key players he already knows and respects.
Glasner has previously managed in Austria, Germany, and England, and is known as a diligent student of the game. His staff is assisting him in compiling a detailed dossier on Milan ahead of the meeting with the club’s ownership, a summit that could significantly alter his career path.
At Crystal Palace, Glasner frequently employed a 3-4-2-1 formation. While he has utilized a back four in the past, particularly at Wolfsburg, indications suggest he will continue with a three-man defense, a system that brought him success in England. He intends to implement an attacking style, potentially more expansive than the 3-5-2 favored by previous manager Stefano Pioli. Cardinale is reportedly hoping for a more attacking approach.
Alongside goalkeeper and captain Mike Maignan, defender Malick Thiaw is considered a key player for Glasner, who believes the three-at-the-back system will maximize Thiaw’s strengths in closing down opponents and driving forward with the ball. Matteo Gabbia’s understanding of the club’s culture could be valuable in integrating new players, while the future of Fikayo Tomori remains uncertain due to his expiring contract. Glasner is expected to request reinforcements in defense, recognizing the demands of competing in both European and domestic competitions.
Midfield options are also under review, with Adrien Rabiot attracting interest from Napoli and potentially following Pioli. The club is also considering a move for Luka Modric. Glasner is not averse to player sales, having overseen departures of key players like Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze during his time at Crystal Palace, but consistently delivered success despite these losses.
In attack, Rafael Leão has indicated his desire to leave, while Christian Pulisic is a player Cardinale wants to retain and Glasner is familiar with. Glasner has extensive knowledge of Christopher Nkunku, having been on the opposing side when Nkunku’s RB Leipzig defeated his Eintracht Frankfurt in the 2023 German Cup final. A reliable goalscorer is a priority, with Lorenzo Gimenez currently the only recognized striker in the squad.
However, Milan faces competition for Glasner’s services from Bayer Leverkusen, who are also interested in appointing him. Milan is attempting to move quickly to secure Glasner, offering him the opportunity to compete for a league title, something Leverkusen may not guarantee.
