Cardinale: 'I'm not going to abandon Rúben'

AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale has backed Rúben Amorim unconditionally, comparing his support to Tom Cruise's Top Gun line, and dismissed speculation about the manager's future.

AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale has given Rúben Amorim his full backing in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, dismissing recent speculation about the Portuguese manager's position following the team's defeat to Bologna.

Cardinale used a Top Gun reference to underline his commitment, saying: "At the end of Top Gun, there's a great line: 'I'm not going to abandon my wingman,' says Tom Cruise. And I'm not going to abandon Rúben. He is in absolutely no danger. You can't win if you keep changing managers. I chose Amorim."

The owner acknowledged Milan's injury problems and admitted he couldn't complete all his desired summer transfers, but expressed confidence in the team's direction. He described a different atmosphere at Milanello under Amorim compared to the previous four years and confirmed he speaks regularly with the manager before matches, asking how he can help. Cardinale also stated he remains convinced Milan can win the Scudetto this season.