Albertini’s view on Milan, Fonseca, Zirkzee, Leao and ‘best’ coach on the market | OneFootball

Milan legend Demetrio Albertini urges the Rossoneri to ‘invest’ in a new centre forward and says Antonio Conte was the best coach on the market, although Paulo Fonseca isn’t judged for who he really is.

Former Milan and Italy midfielder Albertini spoke to Tuttosport about the Rossoneri’s strategy for the summer.

The first step concerns the new coach, with Paulo Fonseca expected to replace Stefano Pioli.

“Stefano has done a lot, much more than many expected,” said Albertini.

“Perhaps he would have stayed for another year, but the club chose otherwise, so we must look ahead.

Albertini’s view on soon-to-be Milan coach Fonseca

“I’ve checked some of Fonseca’s stats. He has earned many points and made young players grow,” the ex-midfielder continued.

“He doesn’t talk much and quiet people in football are often not judged for who they really are. He seems a coach who can valorise the club’s heritage, but a lot will depend on the transfer market.”

Most Milan fans didn’t seem too happy about Fonseca and wanted Conte instead, but the Italian tactician, a former teammate of Albertini with the Italian national team, has signed a three-year contract with Napoli.

“Coaches are not enough to win; you need the players, too. De Laurentiis admitted guilt and got the best [coach] on the market. The pitch will say if he’s really the best.”

The ex-midfielder added that Milan fans deserve to know the club’s plans for the future clearly, regardless of new signings.

“Milan were outside the title race almost from the start of the season, but the fans still filled San Siro,” he said.

“This is why clarity is due. They must build something and aim for the Scudetto. At Milan, a fourth-place finish is not enough.”

Albertini’s view on Zirkzee potentially joining Milan

The Serie A giants are in advanced talks for Bologna star Joshua Zirkzee. Is he the striker Milan need?

“They’ve been missing it [a striker] for many years. Objectively, an investment is needed. It’s not easy to find a player like Giroud. It’s a delicate role because the team’s results massively depend on the No.9,” said Albertini.

“The first question must be: Which Milan? It depends on whether Milan must grow or win straight away.”

However, the 52-year-old seems intrigued by an attacking trident with Zirkzee, Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic.

“Yeah. You can’t only rely on experience; a young player’s confidence is also important to accelerate a process that must lead to victory.

As for Leao, “he must work on consistency, we all know his talent. You see a true leader inside the dressing room, not necessarily on the pitch.”