Igli Tare, 52, is reportedly on the verge of leaving AC Milan after just one year as sporting director, according to reports in Italy. While no official announcement has been made, particularly with two crucial Serie A matches remaining, sources suggest a parting of ways is likely. The situation follows comments made by club owner Gerry Cardinale regarding the club’s transfer spending in recent years.
Cardinale, in a recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, offered a critical assessment of the club’s transfer activity, prompting scrutiny of Tare’s impact since his appointment last year. Tare initially targeted Luka Modric as a key signing, and also expressed interest in Granit Xhaka and Ardon Jashari during the summer transfer window. While the club supported the pursuit of Xhaka – who ultimately joined Sunderland – and Jashari, other signings like Athekame from Young Boys were directly advocated by Tare. In January, Tare pushed for the loan signing of Füllkrug from West Ham, while deals for Alphadjo Cissè and Mateta were primarily handled by CEO Giorgio Furlani.
Critics, and potentially Cardinale, are reportedly placing blame on Tare for the underwhelming performances of Jashari and Christopher Nkunku, who arrived for a combined €71 million. Both players have struggled to make a significant impact in their first season with the Rossoneri. Jashari, in particular, has found limited playing time under coach Stefano Pioli, starting only five league matches and often deployed in a role different from his preferred position. Nkunku has scored 6 league goals, averaging a goal every 202 minutes, a rate comparable to Pulisic and Leao.
A defense of Tare’s work would highlight the successful acquisition of Modric, and the influence in bringing in Adrien Rabiot. The situation remains fluid, with Milan’s immediate focus on securing Champions League qualification. A positive result against Genoa could alleviate some pressure and alter the assessment of the season, while a negative outcome would likely intensify scrutiny of the club’s management, including Tare. The club’s fate in the final match against Cagliari will also be a significant factor in determining future decisions.
