<p>The winds of change are sweeping through&nbsp;<strong>AC Milan</strong>, with the appointment of Portuguese manager&nbsp;<strong>Sergio Conceicao</strong>&nbsp;following the controversial dismissal of <strong>Paulo Fonseca</strong>. This marks a pivotal moment for Milan and&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/christian-pulisic/">Christian Pulisic</a></strong>, the USMNT star currently recovering from a calf injury. With Conceicao’s managerial debut imminent, many fans are asking how the 26-year-old will adapt to his new coach’s pragmatic approach.</p>



<p>Conceicao becomes <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/milan/">Milan</a>’s&nbsp;<strong>third manager in less than six months</strong>, reflecting the turbulent state of the club under the ownership of American businessman&nbsp;<strong>Gerry Cardinale</strong>. After&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/christian-pulisic-gets-a-new-coach-at-ac-milan-after-paulo-fonseca-was-sacked/"><strong>Paulo Fonseca</strong>’s dismissal</a> following a disappointing 1-1 draw against Roma, the 50-year-old was signed to a deal through June 2026.</p>



<p>This managerial instability has fueled tensions within the Rossoneri fanbase. Protests erupted during the club’s anniversary celebrations, with banners and chants calling for Cardinale to sell the club. Amid this backdrop of unrest, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/Sergio-Conceicao/">Conceicao</a> must steady the ship—and integrate players like Pulisic into his plans.</p>



<h2>Sergio Conceicao: Pragmatic approach to Milan</h2>



<p>Conceicao arrives at the San Siro with an impressive CV, including&nbsp;<strong>three league titles</strong>, multiple domestic trophies, and two Champions League quarterfinal appearances during his seven-year tenure at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/porto/">Porto</a>. Under the Portuguese, the club is expected to adopt a more&nbsp;<strong>physical and intense style</strong>&nbsp;of play, focusing on a watertight defense.</p>



<p>During Porto’s title-winning campaigns, the team conceded as few as&nbsp;<strong>18 goals</strong>&nbsp;in a season, demonstrating the effectiveness of Conceicao’s defensive strategies. His approach often involves a&nbsp;<strong>zonal defense in two banks of four</strong>, combined with aggressive pressing and counterattacks.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241231_WST_546440_AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao-1200x675_ce68c6d6.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao celebrating." class="wp-image-546002" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/27155723/AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/27155723/AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/27155723/AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/27155723/AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/27155723/AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/27155723/AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/27155723/AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/27155723/AC-Milan-Christian-Pulisic-Rafael-Leao.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>However, adapting to Conceicao’s methods could challenge players like&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/rafael-leao/">Rafael Leao</a></strong>, whose individualistic style may clash with the team-oriented demands of the new system. Pulisic, on the other hand, is likely to thrive in a setup that values disciplined, high-intensity performances.</p>



<h2>How Pulisic fits in Conceicao’s system</h2>



<p>Currently sidelined with a calf injury, the American will return to a vastly different team dynamic under the new manager. His tactical fit will be critical, but signs suggest he will adapt well. Conceicao’s systems, typically a&nbsp;<strong>4-4-2</strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>4-2-3-1</strong>, prioritize hard-working players, and Pulisic’s versatility and work ethic align with these demands.</p>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">📸 <a href="https://twitter.com/Gazzetta_it?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Gazzetta_it</a>: Two versions, which one you prefer ? <a href="https://t.co/bXYGsKBYvd">pic.twitter.com/bXYGsKBYvd</a></p>— Milan Posts (@MilanPosts) <a href="https://twitter.com/MilanPosts/status/1873986012566974700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2024</a></blockquote></div>



<h5>Defensive contributions</h5>



<p>Pulisic’s willingness to track back and engage defensively aligns well with Conceicao’s demand for hard-working players. In a&nbsp;<strong>4-4-2 setup</strong>, Pulisic could operate as a wide midfielder, contributing to both defensive organization and quick counterattacks.</p>



<h5>Attacking role</h5>



<p>In more advanced r<strong>o</strong>les, such as a wide forward in a&nbsp;<strong>4-2-3-1</strong>, Pulisic’s pace and ability to break lines would make him a vital asset in Conceicao’s vertical soccer system. His versatility to play across the front line offers Conceicao tactical flexibility.</p>



<h5>Key partnership with Rafael Leao</h5>



<p>A potential area of focus will be Pulisic’s partnership with&nbsp;<strong>Rafael Leao</strong>, Milan’s talismanic forward. While Leao’s style leans more toward flair and individual brilliance, Conceicao will likely demand increased defensive commitment from his compatriot. If Leao adapts to these expectations, the duo could form a formidable attacking threat, with Pulisic dropping deeper to link play.</p>

Sergio Conceicao’s Milan makeover for Serie A and Champions League: Where does Christian Pulisic fit in the new system?

Sergio Conceicao’s Milan makeover for Serie A and Champions League: Where does Christian Pulisic fit in the new system? - World Soccer Talk

destacadas

<p>Despite achieving respectable results in the 2024-25 <strong>UEFA Champions League</strong>, <strong>AC Milan</strong>’s season in domestic competitions has fallen far short of expectations. Following a series of poor performances, the 1-1 draw against <strong>Roma</strong> proved to be the tipping point, leading to the dismissal of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/Paulo-Fonseca/"><strong>Paulo Fonseca</strong></a>. As USMNT star <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/christian-pulisic/">Christian Pulisic</a></strong> continues his recovery from injury, <strong>Milan has already secured a new head coach to turn their season around</strong>.</p>



<p><strong>Paulo Fonseca faced ongoing pressure due to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/milan/">Milan</a>’s underwhelming results in Serie A</strong>. However, beyond the lackluster performances, his strained relationships with key players like <strong>Theo Hernandez</strong>, <strong>Rafael Leao</strong>, and <strong>Davide Calabria</strong> played a significant role in his dismissal. <strong>The poor chemistry with team leaders reportedly forced the club’s executives to act decisively</strong>.</p>



<p>According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, <strong>former Porto manager <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/Sergio-Conceicao/">Sergio Conceicao</a> has accepted the role as Milan’s new head coach</strong>. The Portuguese tactician is set to sign a contract valid until June 2026, with expectations high that he can revive the team’s fortunes.</p>



<p>Fonseca, who joined from LOSC Lille after a successful stint in Ligue 1, <strong>managed only 24 games with Milan, recording 12 wins, six draws, and six losses</strong>. While the team remains in the Champions League, their current eighth-place position in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/serie-a/"><strong>Serie A,</strong></a> 14 points behind the leaders, has fallen drastically short of the club’s ambitions.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241230_WST_546297_Paulo-Fonseca-Milan-1200x675_1c98b790.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-546301" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29184930/Paulo-Fonseca-Milan-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29184930/Paulo-Fonseca-Milan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29184930/Paulo-Fonseca-Milan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29184930/Paulo-Fonseca-Milan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29184930/Paulo-Fonseca-Milan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29184930/Paulo-Fonseca-Milan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29184930/Paulo-Fonseca-Milan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29184930/Paulo-Fonseca-Milan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p><strong>The match against Roma only reinforced doubts about Fonseca’s leadership</strong>. Failing to secure a victory against a struggling opponent at home, coupled with Fonseca’s ejection in the 42nd minute for unsportsmanlike conduct, culminated in Milan’s decision to part ways with him.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/christian-pulisics-return-date-set-after-injury-celebrated-by-ac-milan-and-usmnt/"></div>


<h2>Sergio Conceicao: The chosen solution</h2>



<p>Milan’s top executives—<strong>super consultant Zlatan Ibrahimovic, CEO Giorgio Furlani, and technical director Geoffrey Moncada</strong>—have been eyeing Sergio Conceicao for some time. Following Sunday’s game, they finalized their decision to bring him on board. <strong>Known for his tactical acumen and success in European competitions, Conceicao is viewed as the ideal candidate to refresh the squad and stabilize the club</strong>.</p>



<p>Conceicao has been without a team since leaving Porto in June, where he enjoyed a seven-year tenure that included three league titles. Milan had considered him during the summer, engaging in preliminary discussions, but ultimately opted for other candidates, including Fonseca. However, <strong>Conceicao remained eager to join Milan, even turning down offers from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brazilian clubs in anticipation of this opportunity</strong>.</p>



<h2>What does this mean for Christian Pulisic?</h2>



<p><strong>Christian Pulisic was a central figure under Fonseca’s management, featuring in 20 games, scoring eight goals, and providing six assists</strong>. The former coach relied heavily on Pulisic’s versatility and even trusted him as the team’s primary penalty taker—a role that sometimes caused friction among teammates when decisions on the pitch diverged from Fonseca’s instructions.</p>



<p>Sergio Conceicao’s arrival could offer new opportunities for Pulisic’s development. <strong>Known for his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, Conceicao places significant emphasis on wide players and creative outlets in attack</strong>. During his time at Porto, he notably developed players like <strong>Otavio</strong> and <strong>Luis Diaz</strong>, suggesting that Pulisic could thrive under his guidance.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241230_WST_546297_Sergio-Conceicao-Milan-1200x675_7aadad2a.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-546302" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29185059/Sergio-Conceicao-Milan-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29185059/Sergio-Conceicao-Milan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29185059/Sergio-Conceicao-Milan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29185059/Sergio-Conceicao-Milan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29185059/Sergio-Conceicao-Milan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29185059/Sergio-Conceicao-Milan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29185059/Sergio-Conceicao-Milan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29185059/Sergio-Conceicao-Milan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p><strong>The Portuguese manager is expected to make his debut during the Supercoppa Italia semifinals against Juventus early next year</strong>—coinciding with Pulisic’s anticipated return from injury. While the American star may initially need to prove himself under Conceicao, his strong form before the injury should position him well to secure a key role in the revamped Milan lineup.</p>

Christian Pulisic on alert: AC Milan announces new coach after Paulo Fonseca's dismissal

Christian Pulisic gets a new coach at AC Milan after Paulo Fonseca was sacked - World Soccer Talk

Christian Pulisic has new coach at AC Milan after Paulo Fonseca's dismissal

Christian Pulisic gets a new coach at AC Milan after Paulo Fonseca was sacked

<p>Andre Villas-Boas has ended Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa’s 42-year rule as president of Porto with a resounding win. </p>



<p>This has been a long-held goal for the ardent Dragões supporter. He left his managerial position in 2022 to devote himself fully to his presidential campaign.</p>



<p>Villas-Boas, who had a short and difficult time as Chelsea manager in 2011, celebrated his victory by dancing about in a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/porto-stuns-arsenal-with-last-gasp-winner-in-champions-league-20240221-WST-490985.html">Porto</a> home jersey and a scarf. He had a miserable time at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a>, where he had served under Jose Mourinho until being fired in March 2012.</p>



<p>Then, with Tottenham, the Portuguese coach made a swift comeback to the Premier League; the team came dangerously close to qualifying for the Champions League before he departed in December 2013.</p>



<p>Now, more than ten years after his breakthrough, Villas-Boas is back at the club that gave him his name. Upon being chosen president of the club, the former manager couldn’t contain his joy. He won a triple with Porto in his one season as manager.</p>



<h2>What did Villas-Boas say?</h2>



<p>Pinto da Costa presided over the Blue and Whites as they won 68 trophies, including two Europa League and two Champions League championships. </p>



<p>With 26,741 people casting ballots, the 46-year-old received over 80% of the vote, resulting in a resounding victory. It shattered the previous record of 10,000.</p>



<p>After taking the oath of office, Villas-Boas stated: “I want to convey my gratitude to Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa for everything he has given to our FC Porto, the life he gave to FC Porto and guarantee him that it will always be his home.</p>



<p>“I hope to correspond fully to the demands of all Portistas: to win, to lift trophies and to build a sustainable club for the future. We have a long mission ahead of us. It will take arduous work in a house that has to be restructured, sorted out and reorganised.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240428_WST_504041_AVB-Porto-President-Campaign-1200x670_2bad42f1.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-504060" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/AVB-Porto-President-Campaign-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/AVB-Porto-President-Campaign-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/AVB-Porto-President-Campaign-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/AVB-Porto-President-Campaign.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Andre VIllas Boas won his campaign to become Porto president</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What does it mean for club?</h2>



<p>How does this factor into the overall picture? One consequence is that, even though he recently signed a new deal, coach <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/psg-expected-to-hire-porto-coach-sergio-conceicao-20230617-WST-438294.html">Sergio Conceição</a> will probably leave this summer.</p>



<p>Just before he took over in the summer of 2017, Benfica had won the previous four league championships. It all came to an end in his first season, when he ended a trophy drought of five years and restored Porto’s supremacy. In the time after, he won three Taça de Portugal crowns, one Taça da Liga, and two further Primeira Liga championships.</p>



<p>But the Portuguese club <a href="https://www.jpn.up.pt/2024/04/26/fc-porto-renova-com-sergio-conceicao-ate-2028-e-francisco-conceicao-ate-2029/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">confirmed on Thursday</a> that Conceicao has renewed his long-term deal, which will keep him with the team until June 2028. </p>



<p>Since then, he has been inaccessible to other teams, including AC Milan. Thus, they have had to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/pulisic-and-mckennie-had-comical-obstacle-to-overcome-in-serie-a/">look elsewhere</a> for an option to replace Stefano Pioli.</p>



<p>Multiple other consequences will affect several sports in addition to Porto’s sports department. Reportedly, Gian Piero Gasperini and Andoni Zubizarreta are the targets of Villas-Boas’ search for a new manager and a sports director, respectively.</p>



<p>Maybe the most peculiar outcome of this is the predicament that Sergio’s son, Francisco Conceição finds himself in. After selling him for $5.3 million, Porto repurchased him for $10.7 million. Also, the ex-president included a 20% resale provision in the player’s own transfer agreement that Francisco might take advantage of.</p>



<p>Photo credit: IMAGO / Atlantico Press IMAGO / Atlantico Press</p>

Rare: Porto boss to exit after signing new deal with ex-president

Villas-Boas has ended Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa's 42-year rule as president of Porto with a resounding win. What does it mean for Conceição?

Rare: Porto boss to exit after signing new deal with ex-president - World Soccer Talk

<p>Arsenal edged <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/fc-porto-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states/">Porto</a> in a penalty shootout Tuesday night to advance to the UEFA <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/champions-league-tv-schedule/">Champions League</a> quarterfinals. It was the English side’s first triumph in the round of 16 of the competition since 2010. The Gunners will now continue their quest for a European trophy alongside a tight <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> race.</p>



<p>Following the final save by David Raya on the night, the managers of the two teams met near the center of the pitch. Cameras showed both <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a> boss Mikel Arteta and Porto head coach Sergio Conceicao in a fairly heated exchange. Arteta seemed to be a bit confused with Conceicao’s words as the Portuguese coach wagged his finger in the Spaniard’s face.</p>



<p>Conceicao was, of course, asked about the discussion after the match. The coach claimed that Arteta insulted his family earlier in the tense matchup. “During the game, [Arteta] turned to the bench and in Spanish – it must be a Spanish coach thing because it was the same thing with [Pep] Guardiola – he insulted my family,” <a href="https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11670/13093675/arsenal-boss-mikel-arteta-denies-insulting-porto-manager-sergio-conceicaos-family-after-dramatic-champions-league-round-of-16-shootout" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> Conceicao</p>



<p>“In the end, I told him to pay attention because who he insulted is no longer with us, and to worry about coaching his team, because due to individual quality, he has an obligation to do more and better.”</p>



<p>Arteta opted to not comment on the allegations in his postgame interview. However, the north London club quickly denied that their manager made such a statement to his opponent.</p>



<h2>Porto remarks about Arteta are similar to comments regarding Guardiola, Tuchel</h2>



<p>As Conceicao mentioned, this is hardly the first time he has made such allegations. Porto previously played <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-city-tv-schedule/">Manchester City</a> in the group stage of the 2020/21 Champions League season. After facing Guardiola’s club, the Porto manager claimed that the opposing manager made harsh comments about Portugal.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240313_WST_494818_Conceicao-Porto-1200x670_ca32bcd6.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494833" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Conceicao-Porto-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Conceicao-Porto-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Conceicao-Porto-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Conceicao-Porto.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>“I’ve got a lot to learn from Pep Guardiola, in the way he pressures referees, talks to opposition players and the opposition dugout,” <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/sergio-conceicao-pep-guardiola-thomas-tuchel-porto-boss-accuses-mikel-arteta-insulting-dead-family-member-champions-league-arsenal/blt7a4e541406ac76b9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> Conceicao. “He’s a fantastic example. I have to learn this. We were angels compared to the other dugout. He spoke about our country using ugly words. Guardiola’s attitude was extremely unpleasant.”</p>



<p>Later in the same season, Porto advanced to the quarterfinals of the competition and faced off against English side <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a>. After the Blues knocked off the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/primeira-liga-tv-schedule/">Primeira Liga</a> club, Conceicao once again chose to say that the opposing coach hurled insults towards the Porto bench. Thomas Tuchel was in charge of Chelsea at the time.</p>



<p>“I was insulted by [Tuchel] who is next door,” <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/sergio-conceicao-pep-guardiola-thomas-tuchel-porto-boss-accuses-mikel-arteta-insulting-dead-family-member-champions-league-arsenal/blt7a4e541406ac76b9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asserted</a> the Porto boss. “I told the referee that the fourth referee heard the insults. My English is not perfect, there is no point in talking about it. There was no exchange of words because I was focused on the game. I don’t know why he reacted.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Any guesses on what was said between Arteta and Porto boss Sergio Conceicao? 👀 <a href="https://t.co/8yFu974XUo">pic.twitter.com/8yFu974XUo</a></p>— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) <a href="https://twitter.com/footballontnt/status/1767715316052771195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Conceicao previously learned under Mourinho at Porto</h2>



<p>Conceicao’s comments regarding Arteta are certainly shocking. Nevertheless, the Portuguese coach’s previous interactions with managers at English clubs seem to show a specific pattern. Deflecting attention away from a major loss appears to be a last resort option for Conceicao. The former winger previously played for veteran coach Jose Mourinho while at Porto. Mourinho also has a controversial history of making odd comments following losses.</p>



<p>After the recent defeat, Porto will have to turn their attention to the Primeira Liga. The Dragons are currently seven points behind league leaders <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/sporting-cp-tv-schedule-for-united-states-viewers/">Sporting</a> in the title race. Arsenal, on the other hand, is currently atop the Premier League standings and will have to fend off Liverpool and Manchester City to collect their first top-flight trophy in 20 years.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>

Arsenal deny 'insult' as Porto boss accuses Arteta of remarks

Porto manager Sergio Conceicao claimed Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta insulted him during their recent matchup. Arsenal denied the allegations.

<p>Arsenal edged <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/teams/fc-porto-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states/">Porto</a> in a penalty shootout Tuesday night to advance to the UEFA <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/champions-league-tv-schedule/">Champions League</a> quarterfinals. It was the English side’s first triumph in the round of 16 of the competition since 2010. The Gunners will now continue their quest for a European trophy alongside a tight <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> race.</p>



<p>Following the final save by David Raya on the night, the managers of the two teams met near the center of the pitch. Cameras showed both <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/teams/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a> boss Mikel Arteta and Porto head coach Sergio Conceicao in a fairly heated exchange. Arteta seemed to be a bit confused with Conceicao’s words as the Portuguese coach wagged his finger in the Spaniard’s face.</p>



<p>Conceicao was, of course, asked about the discussion after the match. The coach claimed that Arteta insulted his family earlier in the tense matchup. “During the game, [Arteta] turned to the bench and in Spanish – it must be a Spanish coach thing because it was the same thing with [Pep] Guardiola – he insulted my family,” <a href="https:\/\/www.skysports.com/football/news/11670/13093675/arsenal-boss-mikel-arteta-denies-insulting-porto-manager-sergio-conceicaos-family-after-dramatic-champions-league-round-of-16-shootout" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> Conceicao</p>



<p>“In the end, I told him to pay attention because who he insulted is no longer with us, and to worry about coaching his team, because due to individual quality, he has an obligation to do more and better.”</p>



<p>Arteta opted to not comment on the allegations in his postgame interview. However, the north London club quickly denied that their manager made such a statement to his opponent.</p>



<h2>Porto remarks about Arteta are similar to comments regarding Guardiola, Tuchel</h2>



<p>As Conceicao mentioned, this is hardly the first time he has made such allegations. Porto previously played <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-city-tv-schedule/">Manchester City</a> in the group stage of the 2020/21 Champions League season. After facing Guardiola’s club, the Porto manager claimed that the opposing manager made harsh comments about Portugal.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240313_WST_494818_Conceicao-Porto-1200x670_5c9ffa76.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494833" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Conceicao-Porto-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Conceicao-Porto-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Conceicao-Porto-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Conceicao-Porto.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>“I’ve got a lot to learn from Pep Guardiola, in the way he pressures referees, talks to opposition players and the opposition dugout,” <a href="https:\/\/www.goal.com/en-us/lists/sergio-conceicao-pep-guardiola-thomas-tuchel-porto-boss-accuses-mikel-arteta-insulting-dead-family-member-champions-league-arsenal/blt7a4e541406ac76b9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> Conceicao. “He’s a fantastic example. I have to learn this. We were angels compared to the other dugout. He spoke about our country using ugly words. Guardiola’s attitude was extremely unpleasant.”</p>



<p>Later in the same season, Porto advanced to the quarterfinals of the competition and faced off against English side <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a>. After the Blues knocked off the <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/primeira-liga-tv-schedule/">Primeira Liga</a> club, Conceicao once again chose to say that the opposing coach hurled insults towards the Porto bench. Thomas Tuchel was in charge of Chelsea at the time.</p>



<p>“I was insulted by [Tuchel] who is next door,” <a href="https:\/\/www.goal.com/en-us/lists/sergio-conceicao-pep-guardiola-thomas-tuchel-porto-boss-accuses-mikel-arteta-insulting-dead-family-member-champions-league-arsenal/blt7a4e541406ac76b9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asserted</a> the Porto boss. “I told the referee that the fourth referee heard the insults. My English is not perfect, there is no point in talking about it. There was no exchange of words because I was focused on the game. I don’t know why he reacted.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Any guesses on what was said between Arteta and Porto boss Sergio Conceicao? 👀 <a href="https:\/\/t.co/8yFu974XUo">pic.twitter.com/8yFu974XUo</a></p>— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/footballontnt/status/1767715316052771195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https:\/\/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Conceicao previously learned under Mourinho at Porto</h2>



<p>Conceicao’s comments regarding Arteta are certainly shocking. Nevertheless, the Portuguese coach’s previous interactions with managers at English clubs seem to show a specific pattern. Deflecting attention away from a major loss appears to be a last resort option for Conceicao. The former winger previously played for veteran coach Jose Mourinho while at Porto. Mourinho also has a controversial history of making odd comments following losses.</p>



<p>After the recent defeat, Porto will have to turn their attention to the Primeira Liga. The Dragons are currently seven points behind league leaders <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/teams/sporting-cp-tv-schedule-for-united-states-viewers/">Sporting</a> in the title race. Arsenal, on the other hand, is currently atop the Premier League standings and will have to fend off Liverpool and Manchester City to collect their first top-flight trophy in 20 years.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>


<p>In their hunt for a new coach, PSG have reportedly turned their attention to Sérgio Conceição. This comes after the French club parted ways with Christophe Galtier.</p>



<p>This is not the first time that the Portuguese coach has been linked with the French champions. Conceição was also rumored to take over last season after Mauricio Pochettino departed the club.</p>



<p><em><a href="https://www.leparisien.fr/sports/football/psg/psg-sergio-conceicao-approche-pour-succeder-a-christophe-galtier-17-06-2023-XM7QITWGTRHNXLE3MY6LSS3XHI.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Le Parisien</a></em> is claiming that <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/psg-tv-schedule/">Paris Saint-Germain</a> executives have recently contacted the coach once again. Conceição is currently managing Porto and is under contract until 2024.</p>



<p>The 48-year-old coach has collected three Primeira Liga titles and a trio of Taça de Portugal trophies over the last six seasons. Despite being under contract, the news source claims that Conceição has a $19 million release clause embedded in his contract.</p>



<h2>Nagelsmann and Arteta both linked with PSG vacancy</h2>



<p>PSG was previously heavily linked with Julian Nagelsmann. The young German was reportedly close joining the <a href="https://www.worldsoccertalk.com/ligue-un-tv-schedule">Ligue 1</a> winners, but negotiations have since broken down. Nagelsmann and PSG execs supposedly could not agree on key details within the club’s day-to-day functions.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨🇵🇹| Sérgio Conceição is indeed among the options &amp; he would be tempted by the PSG project. Jorge Mendes (his agent) is due to travel to Paris this weekend &amp; could put his client’s file on Nasser Al-Khelaïfi’s table. [<a href="https://twitter.com/FabriceHawkins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FabriceHawkins</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ArthurPerrot?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArthurPerrot</a>] <a href="https://t.co/ndyrWmQWiT">pic.twitter.com/ndyrWmQWiT</a></p>— PSG Report (@PSG_Report) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_Report/status/1670034203130380291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Along with the former <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/bayern-munich-tv-schedule/">Bayern Munich</a> boss, PSG were also <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mikel-arteta-holds-talks-with-psg-20230617-WST-438272.html">interested</a> in prying Mikel Arteta away from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a>. Nevertheless, the Spanish coach resisted the approach and will likely remain in north London.</p>



<h2>Portuguese coach has links with Luis Campos</h2>



<p>Conceição does also have relatively close links with PSG’s football advisor Luis Campos. Campos currently has a good relationship with the coach’s agent Jorge Mendes. The PSG exec previously had very positive words to say about Conceição at a soccer summit. Campos said that he admired the Porto coach a lot and that “<a href="https://www.leparisien.fr/sports/football/psg/psg-sergio-conceicao-approche-pour-succeder-a-christophe-galtier-17-06-2023-XM7QITWGTRHNXLE3MY6LSS3XHI.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">his staff is of extraordinary quality</a>.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Tactics Explained | FC Porto" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nme6bw5PbMk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>Another perk of the Portuguese coach is the fact that he does speak fluent French. Conceição has Ligue 1 experience as well, as he managed Nantes during the 2016/17 season. Despite taking over the struggling team midseason, the coach took Nantes up to seventh in Ligue 1. He left to manage Porto shortly after that season ended.</p>



<p>Photo credit: <strong>IMAGO / Sports Press Photo</strong></p>


PSG are looking to replace Christophe Galtier and are expected to choose Sergio Conceicao to take the club forward

PSG expected to hire Porto coach Sérgio Conceição - World Soccer Talk

PSG expected to hire Porto coach Sérgio Conceição

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