Krösche to Milan: the agreement exists, but Eintracht want to be compensated
The name of Markus Krösche is now firmly at the centre of AC Milan‘s new technical project. The German executive, currently CEO of Eintracht Frankfurt, has reached a preliminary agreement with the Rossoneri, but the negotiation to release him from his contract — which runs until 2028 — is not yet finalised.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s president publicly stated that no one from Milan has made official contact and that the club was not informed of any desire by Krösche to leave Frankfurt. A declaration that reads more like a negotiating tactic: the aim is to push Milan into putting a financial compensation package on the table for the early termination of his deal.
According to German sources close to the negotiations — including journalist Mark Smith of Bild — the figure initially required to release Krösche was estimated between €7.5 and €10 million. However, an important detail has emerged in recent hours: part of this sum would be covered by Krösche himself, as it is he who wishes to terminate his contract with Frankfurt. This should significantly reduce the cost to Milan.
The Krösche method: profit transfers, big data and no free agents
Understanding how Markus Krösche operates means understanding the future of Milan in the transfer market. The German executive is known throughout Europe for his data-driven approach: he uses algorithms and advanced software to identify young talents to sign at modest fees, develop and subsequently sell for significant profits. A model that fits perfectly with the philosophy of Gerry Cardinale and RedBird Capital, always oriented towards financial sustainability and value creation through the market.
Several precise guiding principles define his work:
- No player allowed to leave on a free transfer: either they renew or they are sold before the contract expires. An approach that aligns perfectly with the American ownership’s demands — losing an asset for nothing is considered financial negligence.
- Youth-oriented signings, typically under 27, with growth and resale potential. Only in exceptional cases — such as Champions League campaigns — does he deviate from this rule.
- Trust in managers: Krösche does not sack coaches mid-season. Throughout his career he has consistently backed his managers even during difficult patches. This year was an exception, but an isolated one.
- Bringing his own staff: Krösche takes his trusted collaborators with him. This is where Ben Hardung enters the picture — his closest associate, who could take on the role of AC Milan’s sporting director.
Hardung: the profile of a possible new Rossoneri sporting director
Alongside Krösche, as already highlighted in the analysis of the new Rossoneri hierarchy, stands the figure of Ben Hardung. The situation at Eintracht, according to Smith, is peculiar: Hardung did not fully convince the German club’s leadership — they would have replaced him some time ago — but Krösche kept him on due to his deep knowledge of contractual and legal matters in football. An invaluable skill that could prove decisive in navigating Milan’s complex transfer landscape.
The Ibrahimović question: Krösche demands full authority
There is, however, one element that could complicate — or at least shape — Krösche’s arrival in Milan. The German executive has set a clear condition: complete autonomy over technical and transfer decisions. This necessarily implies a reduced role for Zlatan Ibrahimović within the club.
Smith was blunt: “Ibrahimović should be completely out of the picture — he shouldn’t interfere with anything. If they decide to go with Krösche, he becomes the boss and nobody can tell him what to do.” A firm stance that reflects the working style of an executive accustomed to full decision-making authority, as he had at Eintracht Frankfurt.
It is well known that externally Ibrahimović is often pointed to as one of the key figures responsible for Milan’s recent struggles, even if the club’s internal structure remains opaque to outside observers. What is certain is that Milan’s governance model will need to evolve if it wishes to attract a profile of Krösche’s calibre.
Krösche and Amorim already talking: the project takes shape
One detail not to be overlooked: Krösche and Amorim are already in direct contact. A powerful signal indicating that both men have begun thinking in Milan terms, mentally building the project that awaits them. The alignment between technical director and head coach is one of the fundamental prerequisites for constructing a winning project, and the fact that dialogue is already underway is an extremely positive sign for the Rossoneri’s future.
With Krösche as technical director, Hardung as possible sporting director and Amorim on the bench, Milan is closing in on a modern, coherent and ambitious leadership structure. The coming weeks will be decisive in formalising every agreement and officially launching the new Rossoneri era.
