Milan’s search for a stronger sporting structure has returned to the foreground after Markus Krösche left his role as Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director with immediate effect. The German executive remains a leading candidate to become Head of Football at the Rossoneri, a position Gerry Cardinale has considered strengthening for months.
Key takeaways
- Eintracht Frankfurt’s supervisory board unanimously accepted Krösche’s request to be released from his duties immediately.
- Krösche had been among Milan’s principal options, alongside Austria coach Ralf Rangnick, during the club’s earlier review of its football leadership.
- Milan previously chose continuity, retaining confidence in Hendrik Almstadt and Football Intelligence chief Bobby Gardiner.
- Cardinale still wants to reinforce the sporting department, with Krösche regarded as the preferred candidate.
- Timmo Hardung, Krösche’s 1989-born deputy at Frankfurt, could also become part of the Milan discussion.
A vacancy that brings Milan back into the picture
Krösche’s departure follows a relationship with Frankfurt that had become difficult over recent months. An eventual separation had appeared possible, but the speed of the decision has altered the immediate landscape around Milan’s plans.
Cardinale had explored the appointment of a Head of Football in the spring: a senior figure with broad authority across the sporting operation, rather than simply another addition to the existing staff. Krösche and Rangnick emerged as the strongest candidates at that stage, before Milan opted against a change and continued with the structure involving Almstadt and Gardiner.
That decision did not end the wider project. Milan’s ownership still intends to add weight to the department assembled in recent months, and Krösche’s availability makes him an even more relevant name. Developments are possible as early as October or November.
Frankfurt salute a defining executive
Frankfurt have made clear that the separation was conducted respectfully despite the recent tensions. The club credited Krösche with playing a decisive part in shaping the team’s path in recent years, highlighting the Europa League triumph, Champions League participation and the continued growth of the squad as landmarks of his spell.
The club’s message was one of gratitude, recognising his major contribution to their sporting progress and offering its appreciation for his work.
Attention now turns to Hardung, Krösche’s close lieutenant, whose future is expected to be clarified at the beginning of the week. Should Milan move for Krösche, the possibility of Hardung joining him in Italy may become another part of the club’s attempt to redefine its football leadership.
