Montolivo: Milan attack ‘has been a problem for years’ | OneFootball

Former AC Milan captain Riccardo Montolivo has identified the club’s chronic attacking issues as the key area requiring investment this summer, insisting that the forward line has been a recurring weakness long before this season’s collapse, and that only Olivier Giroud’s brilliance masked it for so long.

Speaking to gianlucadimarzio.com, via MilanNews.it, Montolivo was candid in his assessment of the club’s recent failings while stopping short of placing all the blame on the outgoing Massimiliano Allegri.

“He is a very high-level coach,” Montolivo said.

“Milan had an obvious decline and the squad will undoubtedly need to be strengthened for next year. The attack has been a bit of a problem for Milan for many years. Giroud managed in the years he played to hide that problem by having fantastic seasons. But it is up front that action needs to be taken.”

SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Ardon Jashari in action during the Serie A match at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)

Montolivo backs Jashari and Ricci for second chance at Milan after difficult debut season

The former Italy international, who wore the captain’s armband at San Siro and describes his time at the club as a lifelong dream fulfilled, also offered encouraging words to two of Milan’s younger midfielders who struggled for consistency this season.

“Don’t give up,” Montolivo said of Ardon Jashari and Samuele Ricci.

“This year was a difficult season for them also because they had few opportunities and little continuity. Jashari also got injured straight away. I believe both of them deserve a second chance because they are players of value. They need to have patience and not give up.”