Christian Pulisic's next manager? Roberto De Zerbi emerges as favourite to replace Sergio Conceicao at AC Milan despite poor run at Marseille and criticism over handling of Mason Greenwood

Conceicao's days as Milan boss appear to be numbered, with the former Porto coach unlikely to remain in the dugout next season. A report from Gazzetta dello Sportstates that Marseille boss De Zerbi has emerged as the favourite to succeed Conceicao, despite recurring criticism over his handling of forward Mason Greenwood.

After hiring two foreign coaches in Paulo Fonseca and Conceicao, the Rossoneri want to return to an Italian manager and have identified De Zerbi as the ideal candidate for the job. According to Gazzetta, Fabio Paratici, who is heavily tipped to become Milan's new sporting director in the near future, met with the Marseille boss' agent in Milan.

Milan's interest in hiring De Zerbi comes after their unhappiness with current manager Conceicao, who might be unable to save his job even if he guides the team to Coppa Italia silverware. The Serie A giants are currently hovering in ninth place on the league table and the odds are heavily stacked against them as Conceicao aims to help his side finish in the top four and seal qualification for next season's Champions League.

De Zerbi isn’t the only candidate linked to the Milan job. Multiple reports from Italy have also suggested that Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has been a long-term target for the Rossoneri. While the chances remain slim, there’s speculation that Guardiola could make the move to Italy if City's struggles continue despite the fact that he signed a new two-year extension not too long ago.

Milan played out a 1-1 draw against cross-city rivals Inter in the first leg of the Coppa Italia on Wednesday, with the second leg set to take place on April 23. In their next game, Conceicao's men will take on Fiorentina on Saturday, April 5.