Allegri was forgotten the moment he left - Iraola is now the main talking point

A major clear-out is underway at AC Milan. The Rossoneri suffered a humiliating defeat in the final round of the season, and less than 24 hours later heads are already rolling at San Siro. Club owner Gerry Cardinale has decided to sack — almost everyone.

Well, almost everyone. Zlatan Ibrahimovic managed to survive the purge thanks to his strong relationship with the American businessman. The others were not so fortunate, meaning the seven-time European champions must now begin the search for a new head coach, sporting director, CEO and head of scouting.

The earthquake at San Siro came immediately after Milan’s dramatic loss to Cagliari in the final matchday, a defeat that cost the club a place in the Champions League and turned the season into what Cardinale reportedly described as “an undeniable failure.”

In an unprecedented clean-up led by RedBird Capital, four key figures were dismissed on the spot: CEO Giorgio Furlani, sporting director Igli Tare, technical director Geoffrey Moncada and head coach Massimiliano Allegri.

However, only a few hours after Allegri’s departure, Milan had already begun searching for a replacement. According to Sky Sports, the Italian giants have contacted representatives of Andoni Iraola.

The Spanish coach revealed several weeks before the end of the season that he would not remain at Bournemouth once his contract expires, immediately alerting a number of major clubs. Manchester United showed interest before deciding to keep Michael Carrick, while Chelsea also made inquiries before eventually appointing Xabi Alonso. Bayer Leverkusen and Crystal Palace were considered the frontrunners for his signature — or at least they were until recently. Because, according to Sky Sports, Iraola is now a serious candidate to take over Milan’s bench.

Italian insider Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Milan contacted Iraola’s representatives as early as last week in order to prepare for a possible split with Allegri. Another respected journalist, Matteo Moretto, adds that the Basque coach has been on Milan’s radar for two years, though he also notes that appointing him before hiring a new sporting director would make little sense.

As for Iraola himself, the early impression is that he could be an excellent fit for Milan. Despite losing several key players — something he would likely face at San Siro as well — he guided Bournemouth to Europa League qualification this season, securing the south coast club’s first-ever appearance in European competition. And he did it after putting together an incredible 18-match unbeaten run in the league.

There is no doubt Iraola looks ready for the next step in his career. The only question is where he will take it.