Ariedo Braida, who previously served as AC Milan’s director, has expressed concerns about the club’s current state. He claims to have foreseen the team’s disappointing performance this season, attributing it to a “lack of competence” within the organization.

Milan’s recent 1-0 loss to Atalanta at San Siro has left them in ninth place in Serie A, significantly reducing their chances of qualifying for European competitions through league standings. Their best hope now lies in winning the Coppa Italia to secure a spot in the Europa League for the 2025-26 season.

Braida, speaking to Radio Anch’Io Sport, stated, “I don’t mean to sound prophetic, as everyone can make mistakes, but I had anticipated a season like this that wouldn’t meet the expectations of a club like Milan. Unfortunately, my predictions have come true, which deeply saddens me as a long-time Milan supporter.”

The former director pointed to the club’s leadership under owner Gerry Cardinale, including CEO Giorgio Furlani, technical director Geoffrey Moncada, and special advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic, as the source of the problems. “The club desperately needs to find solutions and bring in competent individuals. There’s a clear lack of necessary qualities in the current management,” Braida emphasized.

Milan appears to recognize the need for a unifying figure to oversee transfer strategy and daily operations, as they have been searching for a new sporting director for months. After unsuccessful talks with Fabio Paratici, the frontrunners for the position are now Igli Tare and Atalanta’s Tony D’Amico.

Braida, who celebrated his 79th birthday recently, served as Milan’s director general and later as sporting director from 1986 to 2013. His extensive experience in football management includes roles at Sampdoria, Barcelona, and Cremonese. He currently holds the position of vice president at Ravenna.