Milan prepares administrative shake-up as Ibrahimovic faces reduced influence

Monday 07 September 2026 - 10:25

By: Azzat Manal

Milan prepares administrative shake-up as Ibrahimovic faces reduced influence

AC Milan is preparing for a significant restructuring of its administrative and sporting organization under owner Gerry Cardinale, a move that could reduce the influence of Swedish football icon Zlatan Ibrahimovic within the club.

The changes come after a disappointing season and reflect Cardinale's desire to become more directly involved in the club's day-to-day management. A series of meetings has reportedly focused on developing a new strategy centered on clearer responsibilities, stronger coordination and a more institutional approach to decision-making.

As part of the planned restructuring, several positions and responsibilities are expected to be redistributed. Massimo Calvelli is set to take on a central role within the administrative structure, while Hendrik Almstadt and Bobby Gardiner are expected to have important responsibilities on the sporting side. Donato Lomonaco is also being positioned to oversee the club's scouting operations.

Ibrahimovic has been one of Cardinale's closest advisers since returning to Milan in a senior off-field role. His presence has given him considerable influence over sporting matters and several strategic decisions concerning the club's football operations.

However, the planned shift toward a more collective management model could lead to a clearer definition of Ibrahimovic's responsibilities. Rather than concentrating major sporting decisions around a small number of influential figures, Milan's ownership appears to be seeking a structure in which different specialists share authority and expertise.

The club is also reportedly considering German football executive Markus Krösche for a senior leadership position overseeing football operations. Such an appointment could significantly reshape Milan's sporting hierarchy and further clarify the scope of Ibrahimovic's role.

The restructuring does not necessarily signal an intention to remove the former Sweden international from the club's management structure. His close relationship with Cardinale remains an important factor, and the changes appear more focused on redefining his position within a broader organizational framework.

Cardinale's objective is to build a more institutional model in which responsibilities are distributed among several executives and sporting decisions are made collectively. The approach is intended to reduce dependence on individual personalities while giving Milan a clearer and more structured decision-making process as the club seeks to strengthen its sporting project.