Sunday's events were downright shameful, something unthinkable just a few years ago. Just hours before the crucial match against Roma, rumors began to circulate: Fonseca would be fired regardless of the outcome.
This was the worst possible way to approach such an important match, especially against Claudio Ranieri's well-trained Giallorossi. As expected, Milan's performance was disappointing. They did take the lead with a great goal from Tijjani Reijnders, one of the few bright spots in a turbulent start to the season. But their lead was short-lived as Paulo Dybala equalized with a stunning goal. The referee's inconsistent decisions added fuel to the fire and frustrated both teams.
Fonseca, normally calm and respectful, lost his temper over the referee and was sent off for excessive protests, a rare outburst from the Portuguese coach.
The match finished 1-1, but the drama had only just begun. During post-match interviews, journalists close to the Rossoneri confidently reported that Fonseca had been sacked. Strangely enough, the coach himself remained unaware.
When asked if he had spoken to the club about his future, Fonseca candidly replied: “No.”
Incredibly, no one from Milan's management had informed him of their decision, even though they had already agreed a deal with his successor.
As Fonseca left the stadium, he confirmed the inevitable to fans and reporters: “Yes, it's true, I'm away from Milan. Such is life. I leave with a clear conscience because I gave everything.”
It was a sad, unprofessional spectacle. The club could have saved themselves that embarrassment by simply informing Fonseca in advance and avoiding the farce of his post-match media duties. Instead, the situation reflected a lack of class and organization, which was unbecoming of a club with Milan's storied legacy.
Fonseca's tenure was admittedly fraught with problems. From conflicts with key figures like Rafael Leão and Theo Hernández to a divided dressing room, it was clear from the start that the project lacked trust and cohesion. Entrusting the team to a coach without full support was a fundamental mistake. The inconsistent management was reflected on the pitch, culminating in results that made Fonseca's dismissal inevitable.
Although the new coach now has the daunting task of reviving Milan's fortunes, the way Fonseca was treated will remain a stain on the club's reputation. Even a series of victories cannot erase the poor handling of this transition – a misstep unworthy of Milan's proud history.
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