Christian Pulisic is losing his mentor! AC Milan to SACK Stefano Pioli after derby defeat to new Serie A champions Inter with search for new manager already underway

Inter clinched their 20th Serie A title in style by defeating their city rivals AC Milan 2-1 at San Siro. Simone Inzaghi's side now boasts an unassailable 17-point lead at the top of the Italian league, leaving AC Milan trailing in second place.

As the dust settles on the derby defeat, AC Milan are swiftly moving to address their managerial situation since the board have lost faith in Pioli - as per Fabrizio Romano. According to reports from Antonio Vitiello in Italy, the Rossoneri are on course to appoint a new manager as Pioli is set to be shown the door at the end of the current campaign.

Pulisic shares a strong bond with Pioli as the manager has helped revive his career following a disappointing spell with Chelsea that saw him forced out of Stamford Bridge.

Speaking to Fox Sports last month, Pulisic said: "I wanted an opportunity, and Milan really gave it to me. Pioli really kept his promises. It's not just knowing that I would play, but it's also having someone who supported me, talked about it before and that he wanted me badly.

"He gave me the opportunity to play and be myself the best way I know how, and he adjusted me to what works best for the team. I think we found a good balance in that sense. Tactics are definitely an important aspect in Italy, as everyone says. We constantly examine every possible situation in training: how we press, and how we execute set pieces. I feel I've learned a lot."

Among the candidates under consideration is former Wolves and Real Madrid manager Julen Lopetegui. However, he might not end up in the hot seat in Milan as the club directors are considering several other names as well.

It has been reported that Milan are prioritising a candidate who aligns with the club's philosophy and possesses a broader understanding of the team's vision and objectives instead of someone who likes to have control over every sporting aspect. In the short term, Pioli will continue in the dugout in the five remaining matches of the Serie A campaign.