As the summer transfer window heats up, Italian football is at the center of significant developments both on and off the pitch. Giovanni Malagò has confirmed that a decisive week is underway for appointing Italy's next technical director, while AC Milan have ushered in a new era with Rúben Amorim taking his first day as head coach, even as the club faces a projected €25 million loss for the 2025/26 campaign.
Italy's Search for a New Technical Director Reaches Climax
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is entering a crucial phase in its hunt for a new technical director. Giovanni Malagò, the president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), revealed that "a decisive week has begun" regarding the appointment. The technical director role is pivotal, overseeing the national team's philosophy and youth development, especially after Italy's mixed fortunes in recent tournaments. The decision is expected to have a ripple effect on the search for the next senior team coach, with names like Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte reportedly under consideration for a potential return.
"We are at a turning point," Malagò told reporters. "The technical director will shape the future of Italy for years to come."
Amorim's First Day at AC Milan Amid Financial Challenges
At San Siro, AC Milan welcomed new head coach Rúben Amorim, who arrived from Sporting CP with a reputation for developing young talent and playing an attractive brand of football. Amorim’s appointment comes at a turbulent time; the club is braced for a €25 million loss following their failure to qualify for the Champions League and the payouts required to part ways with the previous coaching staff. The Portuguese tactician was seen taking his first training session this morning, with a focus on a high-pressing 3-4-3 system that made Sporting a force in Portugal.
Milan's management is banking on Amorim to deliver a top-four finish in Serie A and bring financial stability through player sales and reduced wages. The club has already been linked with a squad overhaul, with veterans like Olivier Giroud and Simon Kjær likely to depart.
Other Transfer News: Lukaku Nears Napoli Exit, Lee to Atlético Madrid
In other transfer developments, Napoli are seeking a fee in the region of €10 million for striker Romelu Lukaku, who has attracted interest from Turkish giants Beşiktaş and Fenerbahçe. The Belgian forward, who joined Napoli from Chelsea last summer, has fallen out of favor and the club is keen to recoup a portion of their investment.
Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid are closing in on a major signing from Paris Saint-Germain. South Korean attacking midfielder Kang-in Lee is reportedly on the verge of completing a transfer that would make him the second-most expensive Asian player in history, according to Transfermarkt. The 25-year-old is expected to command a fee above €60 million, shattering records and bolstering Diego Simeone's creative options.
Quick Facts
Italy Technical Director: Decision expected this week
AC Milan New Coach: Rúben Amorim (formerly Sporting CP)
Milan 2025/26 Financial Loss: ~€25 million
Romelu Lukaku Asking Price: €10 million
Kang-in Lee Transfer Fee: Set to become second-highest for an Asian player
Key Takeaways
- Italy's FIGC is in a decisive week for naming a new technical director, a move that will influence the national team's direction.
- Rúben Amorim has officially started work as AC Milan's head coach, facing immediate pressure to reverse the club's financial and sporting decline.
- Napoli are reportedly willing to let Romelu Lukaku leave for around €10 million, with Turkish clubs circling.
- Atlético Madrid are poised to sign Kang-in Lee from PSG in a record-breaking deal for an Asian player.
