Milan Sporting Director Search: Benatia Offers Himself as Moretto Reveals Availability

FolioPitch.com – 09 October 2026 | AC Milan‘s pursuit of a new sporting director has taken an intriguing twist, with former Marseille director Mehdi Benatia offering his services to the club. According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, Moretto states former Marseille director Benatia offered himself to Milan Should they call, indicating that the Moroccan is eager to return to Italy. Benatia, a familiar face in Italian football from his playing days with Udinese, Roma, and Juventus, has expressed full availability should Milan come calling. This development comes as Milan owner Gerry Cardinale continues to evaluate the best candidate to enhance the club’s sporting structure.

Benatia’s tenure at Marseille was marked by significant achievements despite challenges. In his first full season, he helped the club secure a second-place finish in Ligue 1, and last season, they finished fifth amid off-field issues. His astute transfer dealings generated a €50m profit this summer, a testament to his acumen in the market. Now, Moretto states former Marseille director Benatia offered himself to Milan Should they call, and his experience could be invaluable for the Rossoneri.

Milan’s current sporting organization is undergoing a period of assessment. Cardinale is personally involved in the search for the right candidate to integrate into an already established structure. As of today, no clear name has emerged, but further discussions and contacts are expected in the coming weeks. Moretto highlighted Benatia’s profile during a recent appearance on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, noting that the former defender would be happy to work in Italy again. Moretto states former Marseille director Benatia offered himself to Milan Should they call, and this proactive approach could accelerate Milan’s decision-making process.

The potential appointment of Benatia would bring a blend of playing and administrative experience. During his playing career, he was known for his defensive prowess and leadership, traits that could translate well into a sporting director role. At Marseille, he demonstrated an ability to identify talent and negotiate deals that benefited the club financially. His network across Europe, particularly in France and Italy, could be advantageous for Milan as they look to strengthen their squad.

However, the question remains: should Milan call? The club has been linked with several names, and Benatia’s self-offer adds another dimension. Milan’s hierarchy must weigh the benefits of his fresh perspective against the need for a proven director. Benatia’s relative youth in the role—he only retired in 2021—could be seen as either a risk or an opportunity. His success at Marseille suggests he is capable, but the pressures at Milan are different. The Rossoneri are aiming to compete at the highest level in Serie A and Europe, and the sporting director will play a crucial role in achieving those goals.

In conclusion, Moretto states former Marseille director Benatia offered himself to Milan Should they call, and the decision now lies with Milan’s management. Benatia’s availability presents an intriguing option, but the club must carefully consider whether he fits their vision. With Cardinale at the helm of the search, Milan fans can expect a resolution in the coming weeks. Whether Benatia gets the call or not, the club’s pursuit of a sporting director will significantly shape their future trajectory.