Milan’s new era could force Zlatan Ibrahimovic into a less powerful role

AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale is taking a far more direct role in the club’s day-to-day affairs, with a sweeping restructure potentially reducing Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s influence over sporting matters.

The change follows a disappointing season and a difficult end to the campaign, which prompted Cardinale to adopt a more hands-on approach. According to Foot Mercato, the American owner has increased his visits to Italy, held a series of meetings and become more involved in discussions with departments across Milan’s sporting operation.

Cardinale had previously been criticised for keeping his distance from the club’s daily activities. That approach now appears to have changed as he seeks to place the sporting project at the centre of his priorities.

The shift has already been accompanied by major decisions and a broad reorganisation of the club. The coaching staff has changed with the arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim, while Milan’s substantial summer transfer activity underlined the intention to make a fresh start.

The club made significant investments in Goncalo Ramos, Diego Moreira and Mario Gila, with the stated aim of giving Amorim the players and resources he needs to build a squad suited to his requirements.

After several years in which Milan’s management relied heavily on delegation, Cardinale now wants to be directly involved in key decisions. The owner is also seeking a more integrated structure, with departments expected to work together and major issues discussed collectively rather than being left to individual executives.

That philosophy could have important consequences for Ibrahimovic, who remains a consultant and continues to enjoy a close relationship with Cardinale.

Ibrahimovic’s position under review

Since returning to Milan, the former Sweden striker has gradually become one of the most prominent figures in the RedBird project. His influence on sporting matters, direct access to Cardinale, strong personality and history with the Rossoneri have helped him establish a particularly comfortable and influential position within the club.

However, Italian media reports suggest the new structure could reduce the space currently occupied by Ibrahimovic.

Milan’s board is also considering the appointment of a new head of football, with Markus Krosche regarded as one of the leading candidates. The potential move would fit Cardinale’s stated desire to reshape the sporting department around clearly defined responsibilities and greater administrative expertise.

The intention is not necessarily to remove Ibrahimovic. His relationship with Cardinale remains strong and there is currently no indication that Milan are planning to dispense with him. Instead, his responsibilities could be significantly redefined.

If Krosche were to join the club with substantial authority, Ibrahimovic’s present role would inevitably have to be reconsidered. He currently occupies a central position in the Rossoneri’s football environment, but Cardinale’s Milan in 2026 appears less willing to operate under the influence of one dominant figure.

The owner wants to regain control, increase investment and rebuild the club’s structure. That means expertise, defined roles and collective decision-making are being prioritised over individual power.

Cardinale’s growing daily involvement, the possible appointment of a new football chief and the increasing influence of Calvelli could create a different balance of power. Ibrahimovic may no longer be the owner’s principal point of contact on sporting matters.

The possible appointment of Krosche illustrates the direction of travel. His qualifications match Milan’s desire for a more organised football department led by genuine experience in sporting management.

Ibrahimovic is not formally under threat, but his position is facing a new reality at the start of the season. The quiet revolution taking place at Milan may not end his involvement, but it could bring an end to the unusually broad influence he has built since returning to the club.