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Jorge Mendes finally places his man at AC Milan’s helm: From Lopetegui to Conceicao

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In a significant managerial shift, AC Milan have appointed Sergio Conceicao as their new head coach following the dismissal of Paulo Fonseca. While the nationality of the man in charge remains Portuguese, the change brings a new dynamic to the Rossoneri bench. Notably, Conceicao is represented by the influential Jorge Mendes, the super-agent known for his association with Cristiano Ronaldo and numerous other football stars.

Calciomercato report how Mendes has long sought to place one of his clients in the prestigious role at Milan, and his persistence has finally paid off. The Portuguese agent came close to achieving this goal at the end of the 2023-24 season when another of his clients, Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui, was on the verge of taking the reins at Milanello. However, the lukewarm reception from Milan fans led the club’s management to reconsider, resulting in Lopetegui’s move to West Ham and Fonseca’s appointment at Milan.

The behind-the-scenes manoeuvring that led to Conceicao’s appointment is intriguing. Mendes had initially proposed the former Porto coach to Milan’s management during the summer when the Lopetegui deal fell through. He revisited the idea about a month ago, finding a receptive audience in the wake of Milan’s victory in Verona.

This strategic move not only strengthens Mendes’s influence over Rafael Leao’s trajectory at Milan but also finally links his name to the seven-time Champions League winners. While Conceicao’s initial contract is relatively short, running until June 2026, a successful stint could lead to an extension.

The appointment of Conceicao also opens up possibilities for future dealings between Mendes and Milan. As seen with situations involving Francisco Conceicao and Antonio Silva at Juventus, Mendes’s involvement often leads to further opportunities and connections.

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