Longoni: Milan drifting towards ‘unthinkable’ Maignan scenario – action needly quickly

Andrea Longoni believes that it is ‘inconceivable’ to allow Mike Maignan to leave AC Milan on a free transfer, given his importance.

Milan managed to fight off the advances of Chelsea in the pre-Club World Cup transfer window and they were able to keep Maignan. However, that did not solve the issue of his future beyond the current season, given that his contract expires in less than 12 months.

A lot of the reports that have come out recently do not paint a very positive picture, either. La Gazzetta dello Sport spoke of there being a sizeable gap between the two parties financially, while Tuttosport suggested evaluations on Maignan’s replacement have already begun.

Milan must avoid the ‘unthinkable’

Longoni has published a column for Calciomercato.com which is titled ‘Milan captain leaving for free is inconceivable: Maignan, more responsibility is needed on the renewal’. As you might expect, he comments on the Frenchman’s situation.

“It’s also necessary to delve deeper into Maignan’s future. His contract renewal, which expires in June, is currently on hold,” he begins.

Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

“I believe the Frenchman, wearing the captain’s armband, should have a greater sense of responsibility, not only on the pitch and in the dressing room, but also when it comes to renewing his contract. The idea of ​​Milan’s captain leaving the club on a free transfer is unthinkable. It would be incredibly painful, even on a symbolic level.

“Maignan is a man of values; he should put his hand not on his conscience, but on the arm where he wears the armband, and try to at least open negotiations with the management (who must make their financial effort). Beyond his technical value, losing him would mean losing a leader and one of Milanello’s historic landmarks.”