As Milan picked up a 1-0 win over Inter, Mike Maignan was the centre of attention. The Frenchman was pivotal in the tie, saving a penalty and also making two key saves to keep the Nerazzurri out.
As the dust settles from the tie, there is a larger question to be asked about the Frenchman. This is because Maignan’s current contract at Milan runs out in 2026. So far, there have been no signs of a renewal and the goalkeeper was anyway on the verge of joining Chelsea in the summer.
In that scenario, it
leaves Milan with a star player who could leave for free. The Rossoneri aren’t new to this, having lost Hakan Calhanoglu, Gigio Donnarumma and Frank Kessie for nothing.
But in Maignan’s case, the dilemma is far bigger.
Granted, the France international has handed Milan six points almost single handedly because of heroics against Inter and Roma. But in the recent past, he has also had a track record of injury worries. More than that, he has also had inconsistencies in his performances. But when on song, he makes a massive impact.
As he demands a major salary, it is perhaps time for Milan to weigh everything together and then make a decision.
Of course, this question being asked right after the performance in the derby will bring about a biased response from fans. But context is always vital in football – especially if decisions are being made out of pure emotion.
It is also key to consider that Maignan is not young by any means. Granted, goalkeepers last longer than outfield players but options like Zion Suzuki and Elia Caprile are being thrown around and these are obvious, younger options.
The Japanese is much younger and as a result, has a fair amount of rough edges that are seen constantly during games. That is what makes Caprile a natural fit.
The ex-Napoli man also presents himself as a vocal leader who never hides his ambition during interviews. He has a knack for making crucial saves for his side – as evidenced by his rise at Cagliari. Beyond that, he also boasts experience of playing for a major Italian side.
In the next few months, Caprile could also play for Italy. All of this makes him a worthy candidate to replace Maignan. Even if some fans would want the ex-Lille man to stay, he seems to have other ideas.
