During the Coppa Italia trophy presentation, a notable moment of tension occurred between AC Milan coach Sergio Conceicao and former team captain Davide Calabria, now playing for Bologna. This incident drew attention to their strained relationship following a previous altercation.
The two had a well-publicized disagreement in January while both were still at Milan, which led to Calabria`s sudden departure from the club where he had spent his entire career, making over 200 appearances. Calabria subsequently joined Bologna on loan, with his Milan contract set to expire on June 30.
Their paths crossed again at Rome`s Stadio Olimpico when Bologna clinched a 1-0 victory over Milan in the Coppa Italia Final. As Bologna players formed a guard of honor for Milan to receive their silver medals, Calabria warmly greeted his former teammates. However, the atmosphere shifted noticeably when Conceicao approached.
Observers noted that Conceicao appeared to deliberately avoid eye contact with Calabria. In response, Calabria made a conciliatory gesture, lightly patting the coach`s shoulder as he passed by. This interaction, or lack thereof, highlighted the ongoing tension between the two.
Interestingly, Calabria has enjoyed success this season with both teams. He was part of the Milan squad that won the Supercoppa Italiana under Conceicao in January, and then contributed to Bologna`s Coppa Italia triumph. This unusual circumstance adds another layer to the complex dynamics between the player and his former coach.