Allegri Targets Champions League Return in Milan, bets on Modric

Massimiliano Allegri has set his sights on restoring AC Milan’s status among Europe’s elite after being reappointed manager of the Serie A side on Monday.

The 57-year-old returns for a second spell at the helm following the dismissal of Sergio Conceicao, who lasted just five months in charge after overseeing Milan’s worst league finish in over ten years.

Speaking from Singapore ahead of a pre-season clash with Arsenal, Allegri made his ambitions clear: “A club like AC Milan belongs in the Champions League. That’s our immediate target and the driving force behind everything we do this season.”

Milan endured a disappointing 2024–25 campaign, finishing eighth in the league and missing out on continental football. Their season ended in further disappointment with a Coppa Italia final defeat to Bologna.

Allegri, who led Milan to their last Serie A title in 2011 during his first stint from 2010 to 2014, returns with the task of reviving a team in transition. After his success at Milan, he went on to enjoy a trophy-laden run at Juventus, winning five consecutive league titles.

Reflecting on his return, Allegri acknowledged the shifting landscape: “It’s been more than ten years since I first managed Milan. A lot has changed in football, but the objective remains the same, this club must compete at the highest level.”

One of the key figures in Allegri’s rebuild is veteran midfielder Luka Modric, who recently joined from Real Madrid. At 39, the Croatian playmaker brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality.

“Modric is a champion, both in terms of talent and professionalism,” Allegri said. “He will be a vital influence on and off the pitch, and his presence will lift the entire squad.”

With pre-season preparations underway, Allegri is focused on charting a new course for the seven-time European champions, determined to return Milan to the top tier of European football.