MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 21: Laureus Academy Member Ruud Gullit speaksduring an interview prior to the Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2024 at the Palacio de Cibeles on April 21, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)

Milan legend Ruud Gullit sees a similarity between the Rossoneri and Chelsea’s disappointing season and suggests focusing on a clear football identity and the youth sector.

Serie A giants Milan are currently outside a European placement in Serie A and are six points below fourth-placed Bologna.

The Rossoneri won the last two league matches, but had lost the pervious three and sit 9th in the table.

Gullit, a former Milan star, spoke about the Rossoneri’s situation in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“It reminds me of Chelsea, another team that is an enigma at the moment,” he said.

“Honestly, I haven’t understood what style of football Milan want to play. I think they haven’t found the right direction. The squad is strong on paper, especially after the January transfer window. The Supercoppa win didn’t really bring confidence to the group and they haven’t improved compared to last season.”

So, how can they turn things around in the future?

“By doing like PSG did. Stop buying stars, hire a coach like Luis Enrique with a brilliant football philosophy and focus on the youth academy,” the former Netherlands star argued.

“Liverpool are another example. They replaced Klopp with another coach who has a similar style of play. Milan need to rediscover their roots and DNA. Success can’t be bought. It must be pursued through hard work and correct choices.”

At least, Gullit’s compatriot Tijjani Reijnders has been among the best players in the current campaign.

“He’s been incredible in the last few seasons,” Gullit admitted.

“I’ve known him since his time at AZ. I am proud of the progress he’s made. He has become a world-class player, scoring goals and performing consistently at high levels.”

Milan will visit Napoli at the Stadio Maradona on Sunday, and they absolutely need to win to keep their top-four hopes alive. Not playing in the Champions in 2025-26 would surely affect the team financially.

“It would be a disaster. The comeback will be tough, but they can still make it. They must give their all,” Gullit concluded.