AC Milan: Zaidu Sanusi’s former boss agrees to coach Chukwueze and others, to replace Fonseca

Zaidu Sanusi’s former head coach at FC Porto, Sérgio Conceição, has reportedly agreed to take over as manager of Serie A giants AC Milan, Soccernet.ng reports.

This development comes in the wake of Paulo Fonseca’s departure from the Rossoneri, following a disappointing 1-1 draw against AS Roma. The result leaves AC Milan in eighth place in the Serie A standings, well below expectations for the season.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Conceição has agreed in principle to a deal that would keep him at AC Milan until 2028. However, both the Portuguese tactician and his agent, Jorge Mendes, are waiting for the club to formalise the agreement.

⚫️ Sérgio Conceição has accepted AC Milan job as new head coach to replace Paulo Fonseca.

Contract details being sealed, potentially valid until June 2026.

Conceição and his agent Jorge Mendes, waiting for formal steps from club side as AC Milan are due to inform Fonseca. pic.twitter.com/MLBKYLhEFR

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 29, 2024

The Rossoneri have had a poor start to the 2024/25 campaign, securing just seven wins in 17 matches. Their mid-table standing has been a significant letdown for the club and its fans.

The draw against Roma appeared to be the tipping point for Fonseca, who confirmed his departure to reporters waiting outside the San Siro.

“I’ve just learnt that I’ve been sacked as coach. That’s life, that’s how it is. My conscience is calm because I did everything I could,” said the former Braga and Lille manager.

Fonseca had replaced Stefano Pioli at the end of the 2023/24 season and was officially appointed as Milan’s head coach in June 2024.

During his tenure, Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze featured in 22 matches, scoring three goals and providing one assist—an improvement in playing time compared to his spell under Pioli.

If Sérgio Conceição is officially announced as the new coach, Chukwueze will face a fresh challenge to prove himself and secure a spot in the starting XI. Otherwise, a move away from the Rossoneri could become more likely for the Nigerian winger in search of regular playing time.