An unusual situation has emerged at Milanello surrounding Warren Bondo. The midfielder, signed from Monza in January 2023 for around 10 million euros, has officially been reintegrated into collective training sessions with the rest of the Rossoneri squad, after weeks of working on individual programmes. On the surface, this might sound like positive news — but the reality is more complex.
Back in Training but Out of the Project: The Bondo Paradox
Rúben Amorim has made it clear on several occasions that Bondo does not feature in his technical plans. The young midfielder is considered surplus to requirements and will not be selected for official matches. His return to group training does not therefore signal any change in technical thinking, but is driven by contractual and managerial considerations: a player under contract cannot be kept on the fringes of the squad indefinitely without potential legal consequences.
The situation had already become delicate in recent weeks, when Milan offered Bondo an early contract termination — a proposal the player firmly rejected. He chose not to give up the remaining years on his deal or the agreed salary. It is an understandable stance: he signed a contract with Milan and has no intention of walking away from his rights.
The January Transfer Window: The Real Battle Ahead
The real test will come in the January transfer window. Bondo reportedly had several transfer opportunities in recent months but turned them down. Now, however, time is running short: every week spent away from competitive football — without minutes, without visibility — reduces his chances of attracting interest from other clubs. A player who is not playing is difficult to sell, and that is something Bondo himself will need to weigh up carefully when thinking about his career.
The paradox is plain to see: Milan continue to pay his wages, Bondo trains regularly with the first team, yet Amorim will not consider him for official matches. It is a situation that carries both financial and dressing-room implications, and one the Rossoneri are keen to resolve during the winter window.
A Profile That Deserves a Fresh Stage
Born in 2003, French with Congolese roots, Bondo is a physical and dynamic midfielder who showed genuine qualities during his time in Serie A with Monza. His move to Milan seemed to open the door to a bigger stage, but things have not worked out as hoped. At this point, the best solution for all parties — club and player alike — appears to be finding a destination where he can play regularly, show what he is capable of, and rebuild his career.
January is around the corner. Milan and those in the player’s camp will be working to find a way out that suits everyone, in the interest of a career that still has plenty to offer at the highest level.
