AC Milan have identified eight players as central to their plans for next season, according to a report from Italian journalist Giorgio Pianzola. The club anticipates a busy summer transfer window with both incomings and outgoings, but these players are considered key components of the future squad, though Champions League qualification remains a significant factor.
The report stresses that no player is entirely untouchable, but a core group will form the basis of the team’s rebuild. This comes as Milan prepare for a potentially significant overhaul of the squad, aiming to increase both its depth and overall quality. The club will need to balance strengthening the team with offloading players who do not fit into the manager’s plans.
The eight players identified are Mattia Bartesaghi, Matteo Gabbia, Mike Maignan, Filip Pavlovic, Christian Pulisic, Adrien Rabiot, Alexis Saelemaekers, and Fikayo Tomori. The inclusion of Gabbia and Pavlovic suggests a strengthening of the defensive options, while Maignan’s position as the established number one goalkeeper is reaffirmed.
Pulisic has been a consistent performer for Milan since joining from Chelsea, and his retention is seen as vital. Rabiot’s continued presence is also considered important, with the midfielder proving to be a key figure in the team’s engine room. Saelemaekers, a long-term servant of the club, remains a valued member of the squad, offering versatility in midfield and attack. Tomori’s established role as a central defender is also highlighted.
The report acknowledges that the extent of the summer changes will depend heavily on whether Milan can secure Champions League football for next season. Failure to qualify for Europe’s premier club competition would likely trigger a more extensive clear-out. However, even with Champions League qualification, the club expects a busy summer of transfer activity. The core group of eight players will provide a foundation for the team as they look to challenge for honours in the coming seasons. The club’s strategy will focus on building around these individuals, adding quality where needed to create a more competitive squad.
