Kyle Walker backed to become AC Milan's new captain as ex-USMNT star calls out lack of leaders in squad after shock early Champions League exit

Milan’s hopes of advancing in the Champions League round of 16 were dashed following a 2-1 aggregate playoffs defeat to Feyenoord. Santiago Gimenez scored early to erase the first-leg deficit at San Siro, but their night worsened early in the second half when Theo Hernandez received a controversial red card for simulation in the 51st minute. Down to ten men, Milan struggled to cope with the pressure, and Julian Carranza’s late goal sealed their fate, knocking them out of the competition.

Following Milan’s disappointing exit, discussions have turned toward leadership within the squad, with former United States men's national team goalkeeper Meola backing Walker to take on the captaincy role. The English defender, despite being 34, has adapted quickly to life in Serie A and has become an integral part of the squad alongside Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah. Walker is now urged to take on the armband, a role that the Manchester City loanee is already familiar with.

Meola, speaking as a pundit on CBS Sports, said: "I hope Kyle Walker steps up to be the guy. I said if you gave Kyle Walker the armband right now, I would be okay with it because there's really nobody in that dressing room. I know [Mike] Maignan's been wearing it, but there's no one there that I look at as like he's the guy. He's the guy that I lean on all the time."

With their Champions League campaign over, Milan must now shift their attention back to domestic competitions. Currently sitting seventh in Serie A, they remain in contention for a European spot next season. Sergio Conceicao's side have already won the Supercoppa Italiana, too, and they're in the running for another trophy, having reached the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia.