AC Milan Squad 2024/25: A Comprehensive Overview

AC Milan club photo

AC Milan, one of the most storied clubs in football history, continues to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level. The 2024/25 season sees the Rossoneri blending experienced veterans with exciting young talents, aiming to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite. Under the guidance of their manager and with a mix of shrewd signings and academy graduates, Milan’s squad is poised to challenge for domestic and international honors. This post delves into the detailed breakdown of the squad, categorized by position, highlighting each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.

Goalkeepers

Mike Maignan

  • Nationality: French
  • Former Clubs: Paris Saint-Germain, Lille
  • Transfer Fee: €15 million (2021)

Mike Maignan has established himself as one of the finest goalkeepers in world football since joining AC Milan. Known for his exceptional reflexes, commanding presence, and ability to play out from the back, Maignan has been a cornerstone of Milan’s defense. His performances in the 2021/22 season were instrumental in Milan’s Scudetto triumph, earning him the Serie A Goalkeeper of the Year award. Maignan’s leadership and consistency make him indispensable, and at 29, he is in the prime of his career.

Marco Sportiello

  • Nationality: Italian
  • Former Clubs: Atalanta, Fiorentina
  • Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)

Marco Sportiello serves as a reliable backup to Maignan. The Italian shot-stopper brings experience and composure, having spent years in Serie A with Atalanta and Fiorentina. While not as flashy as Maignan, Sportiello’s solid shot-stopping ability and understanding of the league make him a dependable option. His arrival on a free transfer in 2023 was a smart piece of business, providing depth and competition in the goalkeeping department.

Lapo Nava

  • Nationality: Italian
  • Former Clubs: AC Milan Youth Academy
  • Transfer Fee: N/A

A product of AC Milan’s youth system, Lapo Nava is a promising young goalkeeper who has been groomed for the future. At just 20 years old, Nava has already shown glimpses of his potential in youth competitions and preseason friendlies. While he is unlikely to feature regularly in the first team this season, his development is closely monitored, and he represents the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.

Defenders

Theo Hernández

  • Nationality: French
  • Former Clubs: Real Madrid, Real Sociedad
  • Transfer Fee: €20 million (2019)

Theo Hernández is one of the most dynamic left-backs in world football. Known for his blistering pace, attacking prowess, and defensive tenacity, Hernández has been a key figure for Milan since his arrival in 2019. The Frenchman’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a unique asset. His marauding runs down the flank and knack for scoring crucial goals have endeared him to the Milan faithful. At 26, Hernández is entering his peak years and remains a vital part of the squad.

Fikayo Tomori

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: Chelsea, Derby County (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: €28 million (2021)

Fikayo Tomori has been a revelation since joining Milan from Chelsea. The English center-back combines athleticism, intelligence, and composure, making him one of the most reliable defenders in Serie A. His partnership with another center-back has been the foundation of Milan’s defensive solidity. Tomori’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has earned him plaudits, and he continues to grow into a leader at the back.

Malick Thiaw

  • Nationality: German
  • Former Clubs: Schalke 04
  • Transfer Fee: €9 million (2022)

Malick Thiaw is a towering presence in Milan’s defense. The German center-back, standing at 6’4”, excels in aerial duels and possesses a calm demeanor on the ball. Since joining from Schalke in 2022, Thiaw has shown steady improvement, earning more playing time with each passing season. His physicality and ability to play out from the back make him a perfect fit for Milan’s style of play. At 23, Thiaw has a bright future ahead.

Davide Calabria

  • Nationality: Italian
  • Former Clubs: AC Milan Youth Academy
  • Transfer Fee: N/A

Davide Calabria is the embodiment of Milan’s identity. A product of the club’s youth academy, Calabria has risen through the ranks to become the team’s captain. The Italian right-back is known for his work rate, tactical intelligence, and defensive discipline. While not as flashy as some of his counterparts, Calabria’s consistency and leadership are invaluable. His connection with the fans and understanding of the club’s values make him a fan favorite.

Pierre Kalulu

  • Nationality: French
  • Former Clubs: Lyon
  • Transfer Fee: €480,000 (2020)

Pierre Kalulu is one of Milan’s most astute signings in recent years. The French defender, capable of playing both center-back and right-back, has proven to be a versatile and reliable option. Kalulu’s pace, technical ability, and defensive acumen have made him a key player in Milan’s backline. His development since joining from Lyon in 2020 has been remarkable, and he continues to improve with each season.

Alessandro Florenzi

  • Nationality: Italian
  • Former Clubs: Roma, PSG (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: €2.7 million (2022)

Alessandro Florenzi brings experience and versatility to Milan’s defense. The Italian veteran can play as a right-back or in midfield, providing depth and tactical flexibility. Florenzi’s leadership and professionalism have been valuable assets, especially in high-pressure situations. While not a regular starter, his contributions off the bench and in cup competitions are highly appreciated.

Matteo Gabbia

  • Nationality: Italian
  • Former Clubs: AC Milan Youth Academy
  • Transfer Fee: N/A

Matteo Gabbia is another academy graduate who has carved out a role in the first team. The Italian center-back is known for his commitment, aerial ability, and understanding of the game. While he faces stiff competition for a starting spot, Gabbia’s dedication and willingness to learn make him a valuable squad player. His presence ensures depth in the defensive department.

Midfielders

Ismaël Bennacer

  • Nationality: Algerian
  • Former Clubs: Arsenal, Empoli
  • Transfer Fee: €16 million (2019)

Ismaël Bennacer is the heartbeat of Milan’s midfield. The Algerian international is a master of dictating play, with his exceptional passing range, vision, and ability to break up opposition attacks. Bennacer’s tenacity and technical skills make him a complete midfielder. Since joining from Empoli in 2019, he has been a consistent performer and a key figure in Milan’s resurgence.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

  • Nationality: English
  • Former Clubs: Chelsea, Crystal Palace (loan), Fulham (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: €18 million (2023)

Ruben Loftus-Cheek has brought physicality and dynamism to Milan’s midfield since his arrival in 2023. The Englishman’s ability to drive forward with the ball, combined with his strength and technical ability, has added a new dimension to the team. Loftus-Cheek’s experience in top-level competitions, including the Premier League and Champions League, has been invaluable.

Tijjani Reijnders

  • Nationality: Dutch
  • Former Clubs: AZ Alkmaar
  • Transfer Fee: €20 million (2023)

Tijjani Reijnders is a technically gifted midfielder who has quickly adapted to life at Milan. The Dutchman’s ability to control the tempo of the game and his eye for a killer pass have made him a fan favorite. Reijnders’ arrival from AZ Alkmaar in 2023 was seen as a statement of intent, and he has lived up to expectations with his consistent performances.

Yunus Musah

  • Nationality: American
  • Former Clubs: Valencia
  • Transfer Fee: €20 million (2023)

Yunus Musah is a versatile and energetic midfielder who has added depth to Milan’s squad. The American international can play in multiple positions, including central midfield and on the wings. Musah’s work rate, dribbling ability, and tactical intelligence have made him a valuable asset. At just 21, he has a bright future ahead.

Tommaso Pobega

  • Nationality: Italian
  • Former Clubs: Spezia (loan), Torino (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: N/A

Tommaso Pobega is a hardworking midfielder who has risen through Milan’s ranks. The Italian’s physicality and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him a useful squad player. Pobega’s loan spells at Spezia and Torino provided him with valuable experience, and he has since become a reliable option for the first team.

Yacine Adli

  • Nationality: French
  • Former Clubs: Bordeaux
  • Transfer Fee: €8 million (2021)

Yacine Adli is a technically proficient midfielder who has shown glimpses of his potential. The Frenchman’s ability to play in tight spaces and his vision make him an intriguing prospect. While he has yet to establish himself as a regular starter, Adli’s talent is undeniable, and he continues to push for more playing time.

Forwards

Rafael Leão

  • Nationality: Portuguese
  • Former Clubs: Sporting CP, Lille
  • Transfer Fee: €35 million (2019)

Rafael Leão is Milan’s talisman and one of the most exciting forwards in Europe. The Portuguese winger’s blistering pace, dribbling skills, and eye for goal make him a constant threat. Leão’s performances have earned him numerous accolades, including the Serie A MVP award. At 25, he is entering his prime and remains the focal point of Milan’s attack.

Olivier Giroud

  • Nationality: French
  • Former Clubs: Montpellier, Arsenal, Chelsea
  • Transfer Fee: €1 million (2021)

Olivier Giroud continues to defy age with his consistent performances. The French striker’s aerial ability, hold-up play, and clinical finishing have been crucial for Milan. Giroud’s experience and leadership have also been invaluable, especially in high-pressure situations. Despite being 37, he remains a key player for the team.

Christian Pulisic

  • Nationality: American
  • Former Clubs: Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea
  • Transfer Fee: €22 million (2023)

Christian Pulisic has brought creativity and flair to Milan’s attack since joining in 2023. The American winger’s dribbling ability, pace, and versatility have made him a valuable asset. Pulisic’s experience in top leagues, including the Premier League and Bundesliga, has been a major boost for the team.

Noah Okafor

  • Nationality: Swiss
  • Former Clubs: RB Salzburg
  • Transfer Fee: €14 million (2023)

Noah Okafor is a versatile forward who can play across the front line. The Swiss international’s pace, technical ability, and eye for goal make him a dangerous option. Okafor’s arrival from RB Salzburg in 2023 added depth and quality to Milan’s attacking options.

Luka Jović

Luka Jović is a clinical striker who has shown his quality in flashes. The Serbian’s ability to find space in the box and his finishing make him a useful option. While he has yet to fully establish himself, Jović’s potential is undeniable.

Chaka Traorè

  • Nationality: Ivorian
  • Former Clubs: AC Milan Youth Academy
  • Transfer Fee: N/A

Chaka Traorè is a promising young forward who has emerged from Milan’s youth system. The Ivorian’s pace, dribbling, and eye for goal have caught the attention of the coaching staff. While still developing, Traorè represents the future of Milan’s attack.

Conclusion

AC Milan’s 2024/25 squad is a blend of experience, youth, and talent. With a strong core of players and a mix of shrewd signings, the Rossoneri are well-equipped to compete on all fronts. The club’s commitment to developing young players while integrating proven stars ensures a bright future. As the season unfolds, Milan fans can look forward to thrilling performances and a team that embodies the spirit and tradition of this historic club.