Fact or Fake: AC Milan reportedly pursuing Ralf Rangnick

Italian sports outlet Gazzetta dello Sport reports that AC Milan representatives met with Austria's national team coach Ralf Rangnick in Vienna. The Italian newspaper claims that AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale and advisor Zlatan Ibrahimović traveled to meet with the German coach.

Rangnick's contract with the Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) is set to expire after the upcoming World Cup, and he has yet to sign an extension, despite previous reports of positive discussions. This situation raises questions about whether Rangnick is genuinely considering a move to Serie A, if the report is a fabrication, or if it's an attempt to influence his contract negotiations with the ÖFB.

AC Milan previously pursued Rangnick in 2020. This time, the 67-year-old is reportedly being considered for a dual role as head coach and manager, with influence over transfer decisions. He is seen as an alternative to former Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola, with whom Milan has also reportedly made contact.

The Italian club has recently parted ways with its entire sporting leadership, including coach Massimiliano Allegri, sporting director Igli Tare, CEO Giorgio Furlani, and technical director Geoffrey Moncada, following a disappointing season where they failed to qualify for the Champions League. RedBird Capital Partners, Cardinale's U.S. investment firm, has been the majority owner since summer 2022.