Lopetegui, currently out of a job after a short stint with Sevilla, emerged as a potential candidate for the Rossoneri hotseat after Stefano Pioli's future grew uncertain following Milan's Europa League exit to rivals Roma. Reports suggested Milan officials had even made contact with the experienced Spanish manager.
However, those plans seem to have been thrown into disarray by a vocal section of the Milan faithful. Social media platforms were flooded with protests under the banner of "#Nopetegui," with fans expressing their disapproval of the potential appointment.
The reasons behind the fan discontent are multifaceted. Some fans hold reservations about Lopetegui's perceived pragmatic playing style, fearing it might not align with Milan's attacking traditions. Others point towards his short and underwhelming spell at Sevilla, which ended in a dismissal after a string of poor results.
Lopetegui's controversial exit from the Spanish national team on the eve of the 2018 World Cup for taking the Real Madrid job also appears to have left a sour taste with some supporters. They believe the move demonstrated a lack of loyalty and commitment, qualities they value highly in their managers.
The intensity of the fan response seems to have forced Milan's hand. According to Sky Italia, a reliable source for Italian football news, the club has cooled its interest in Lopetegui. The report suggests the "option of hiring him has most definitely gone away."
This turn of events leaves Milan back at square one in their search for a new manager. Paulo Fonseca, the former Roma boss, and Brighton & Hove Albion's impressive manager Roberto De Zerbi have emerged as potential alternatives,although reports suggest no formal contact has yet been made.
Other names like Mark van Bommel and Thiago Motta have also been mentioned. However, van Bommel appears more likely to be a target for Juventus, while Motta might be seen as a less experienced option for a club with Milan's ambitions.
The decision to move away from Lopetegui highlights the growing influence of fan power in modern football. While the final call on managerial appointments still rests with the clubs, passionate supporters can clearly have a say in shaping the direction of their teams.
In Milan's case, the fans have made their disapproval known loud and clear, and the club's hierarchy has seemingly listened. This doesn't guarantee they will find the perfect fit to replace Pioli, but it does demonstrate a willingness to consider the supporters' views.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Milan as they intensify their search for a new manager. With the 2024/25 season fast approaching, they will need to make a swift decision to ensure a smooth transition and allow the new boss ample time to implement his ideas and build a squad capable of challenging for major honors.
Who will ultimately take the reins at the San Siro remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the appointment will be made with the passionate Milan fanbase firmly in mind.
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