AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale’s decision to hire Ruben Amorim over Matthias Jaissle came down to one crucial factor: long-term vision and honesty. The choice was made after Massimiliano Allegri was sacked less than 24 hours following Milan’s final game defeat to Cagliari last season, triggering an intensive search for his replacement.
Jaissle, who had impressed at RB Salzburg before managing in Saudi Arabia, was among the leading candidates. He would eventually land at Newcastle United, replacing Ed Howe in the Premier League. But Cardinale adopted a more hands-on approach to this decision, and Amorim’s first meeting with the American owner proved decisive.
What set Amorim apart? According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Portuguese manager demonstrated remarkable honesty about the challenges ahead. From his first conversation with Cardinale, Amorim was clear that transforming Milan would require time, not miracles in three months. His background in Portugal and England brought a different perspective entirely.
The appointment has faced early criticism following mixed results. Still, Romano defended Amorim’s start, noting that expecting complete transformation after just three months was “absolutely unthinkable.” The long game matters more than instant results, and Cardinale clearly bet on patience over quick fixes.
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