Former Milan defender Kjaer praises Allegri and sends message to Rafael Leao | OneFootball

Ten months after hanging up his boots, Simon Kjaer has reflected on his time at Milan, revealing calm gratitude and striking honesty about his career, the club’s evolution, and what lies ahead.

“I’m a fan of Milan and Denmark,” Kjaer told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“In 2022, when a teammate parked at Milanello, I could see the joy on his face. That Scudetto season summed up everything – the unity, the desire. Ibra created tension, in good and bad ways. He only wanted to win, and Pioli was smart enough to manage the chaos. Zlatan taught me a lot.”

ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Simon Kjaer of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A TIM match between SS Lazio and AC Milan – Serie A TIM at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

But he admits the chemistry of that title-winning side has faded.

“There have been too many changes at every level,” he said.

“I was hurt like every Milan fan, but now I feel much better.”

Kjaer optimistic about Milan future

Kjaer praised Massimiliano Allegri’s impact since taking over in the summer, as the Rossoneri sit comfortably in the race for the Scudetto, up there with the likes of Inter, Napoli and Roma.

“Milan are Milan again. Bringing in players like Modrić and Rabiot restored experience: one of football’s most underrated qualities. They can win the Scudetto because they finally have the right coach. Now you know who’s in charge.”

Modric and Rabiot both arrived in the summer and have had an instant impact on the squad. Modric has been showing that he still has his class, even at the age of 40. Rabiot, meanwhile, is back in Serie A with something to prove and was exceptional before his recent injury.

PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Rafael Leao of AC Milan talks during an interview prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Kjaer also offered a candid message to Rafael Leão:

“He can be one of the best in the world, but he needs help. He’s 26: by 29 it’ll be too late. He must improve one percent every day. He can’t do it alone. He needs a coach and a club to guide him.”

Reflecting on his retirement, Kjaer said leaving football was “hard but right,” choosing family and stability in Italy over compromises abroad.

“I stopped for my kids,” he explained. “I’d already missed half their lives. Now I’m ready for a new chapter — maybe back in Italy, working for a club I love.”