Scaroni discusses future of stadium project, Gazidis, Ibrahimovic and Leao

AC Milan president Paolo Scaroni has spoken about the new stadium project, the future of Rafael Leao and Zlatan Ibrahimovic plus the transition of ownership to RedBird Capital.

Scaroni spoke on ‘La Politica nel Pallone’ on Gr Parliament and the first talking point was about the new stadium project and in particular the widespread reports among the various newspapers in Italy suggesting that an alternative site such as Sesto San Giovanni could be evaluated.

“I hope that Sesto will remain an alternative for our stadium. We will take the first opportunity we will have, and I hope that Sesto will declare itself available to welcome us as a stadium. This Friday, we [Inter and Milan] will meet the mayor Sala and let’s start that popular consultation procedure,” he said (via MilanNews).

“Let’s work on the San Siro and await the votes in Sesto, we will work hard on two fronts to arrive at a solution that equips the two teams with an efficient and modern stadium.”

Scaroni also added a comment about the possible involvement of Inter in a possible project in Sesto San Giovanni, given the speculation that it could be a Milan-only stadium.

“For the Sesto hypothesis it is necessary to seek confirmation in the will of Inter both in the meeting that we have foreseen between Gerry Cardinale and Steven Zhang, who have not yet met. On that occasion we will go to explore the shareholders’ desire to develop the hypothesis in Sesto.”

Scaroni was asked about the future of Rafael Leao who has become a star man in the current side and has attracted interest from clubs abroad as per a number of different rumours, thus launching the idea of a renewal being a priority.

“I don’t deal with transfers, I don’t want to make invasions on the pitch. Leao is certainly a precious pawn, but Milan have shown that they know how to sign rather incredible replacements. I remember Kjaer’s injury and Kalulu’s entry, in retrospect we are all happy to have discovered a new talent.”

Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s future continues to take up space in the newspapers too as he decided to undergo surgery to repair damage to his knee ligaments, with a return expected in January 2023.

“The future? I hope he is still on the pitch and I think he wishes it too. I know that he is proceeding at an accelerated pace as he does, if it ends as I hope he will start playing again. He has played a fundamental role and will continue to play it in the spirit of AC Milan built over the years.”

The upcoming season will be a challenge as Milan will look to retain their Scudetto and also go further in Europe to unlock the revenues that it brings.

“Our dream is to do well in the Champions League. Last year we were eliminated in the first round, this year we aim to do better, at least pass the groups and bring Milan back to compete as in the past. Not I say win it, but do well yes.”

Finally, Scaroni was asked about how the new structure of Milan will be composed once RedBird fully close the acquisition of the Rossoneri.

“Cardinale has proposed to me to remain as president, for the moment I have said that I want to understand the evolution of the picture, but I would be happy to continue this exciting adventure. It seems to me that everything is heading in the right direction,” he said.

“Elliott will remain on the board with at least two directors. I hope that Gordon Singer will remain and there is continuity with the old board. We are sure to count on Gadizis until the end of the contract, at the end of November.”