AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan has delayed his return to pre-season training, sparking speculation regarding his future at the San Siro. The French international, who has served as the club's captain and has been with the side since 2021 when he succeeded Gianluigi Donnarumma, is reportedly frustrated with the direction the club is currently taking.
Reports indicate that Maignan and teammate Adrien Rabiot pushed their return from post-World Cup vacation from August 12 to August 16. This delay is widely viewed as linked to their close professional and personal relationship with former coach Max Allegri, whose sacking in May—alongside the departures of director Igli Tare and goalkeeping coach Claudio Filippi—was met with dissatisfaction by the players. These staff members were let go following the club's failure to qualify for the Champions League.
Despite being under contract with the Rossoneri until June 2031, Maignan is now facing interest from Al-Nassr, the Saudi Pro League club featuring Cristiano Ronaldo. The goalkeeper had previously considered leaving Milan last summer when he received a significant proposal from Chelsea, though the club was unwilling to facilitate a move at that time. He was ultimately convinced to remain by the now-departed trio of Allegri, Tare, and Filippi. Current reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport suggest that Al-Nassr is looking to capitalize on the player's current discontent, aiming to secure his services in 2026.
