Sergio Conceicao, known as an offensive winger during his playing career, now as a coach seems to be more defensive, especially in press conferences. He consistently reminds everyone of his double-digit national trophies with Porto, his Champions League achievements, and the Supercoppa Italiana won with Milan shortly after becoming the first-team coach.
The Portuguese coach also attempted a strained defense following the media storm triggered by a message circulated by his spokesperson, Francisco Empis, which contained direct criticisms of the Rossoneri club’s management and ownership. This was a significant own goal, especially considering the challenging period the club is currently experiencing.
SECOND TROPHY – Conceicao’s communication has been direct from day one, sometimes even too direct. With him, there’s no room for ambiguity or hidden meanings. In a press conference, he responded to Simone Inzaghi (who emphasized Inter’s pursuit of the Treble) to defend his own work once again. Sergio feels very much in contention to win his second trophy in just a few months with Milan: the Coppa Italia. While this cup deserves respect and celebration, it certainly doesn’t redeem a season that has been disastrous both on and off the field.
THE SITUATION – Winning the Coppa Italia would undoubtedly be important for Milan and a source of pride for their coach. However, for the Rossoneri club, it wouldn’t be enough to change their overall assessment of the Portuguese coach. In the 2006/2007 season, Ancelotti’s Milan won the European Super Cup and the Club World Cup but finished fifth in the league. But Ancelotti had a history of success with the club, in addition to European triumphs which are valued more than domestic ones. Missing out on Champions League qualification for Milan would mean regression of 5 years, with significant economic repercussions. Conceicao’s European campaign is also weighing heavily against him, with a defeat to Dinamo Zagreb and elimination by a modest Feyenoord. Furlani was displeased with several of Conceicao’s behaviors, from the public argument with Calabria on the field to the spokesperson incident and some statements made on television. This is why Conceicao’s future at Milan is uncertain, despite the possibility of leaving with two trophies won.