January loan arrivals Joao Felix, Kyle Walker, and Riccardo Sottil are returning to their parent clubs after failing to convince the Rossoneri hierarchy.
The situation had been clear for some time, but now it`s official, confirmed by the club`s social media channels: Joao Felix, Riccardo Sottil, and Kyle Walker are returning to their respective parent clubs. Milan publicly thanked them, removing any lingering doubt. They were the three loan signings from the last winter transfer window – the Portuguese on a dry loan, the other two with a right of redemption – but their time at the club did not result in permanent deals, despite each having moments that hinted at a potential positive outcome.
Joao Felix
He was initially seen as the star signing of Milan`s most exciting January transfer window ever. The initial excitement quickly faded. The first month showed promise, with San Siro impressed by his technical ability in a season otherwise lacking enjoyment. He possessed vision and a refined touch, a player seeking redemption and a long-awaited breakthrough. However, another delay arrived. Joao lost his way progressively, partly due to his own issues and partly, of course, within the context of an increasingly challenging team and season. After the initial weeks, there were discussions about the potential cost of negotiating with Chelsea for his transfer. The final weeks were difficult, including whistles from the San Siro crowd.
Seasonal stats for the Rossoneri: 21 appearances (10 starts), 1,015 minutes, 3 goals, zero assists, average rating 5.97.
Riccardo Sottil
He was signed from Fiorentina – an hour before the transfer deadline – primarily for his versatility, being able to play on either the right or left wing. Realistically, it was clear that with Pulisic on one side and Leao on the other, it wouldn`t be easy for him to secure a regular place. However, it was reasonable to expect more minutes, even though at one point it seemed Riccardo might be involved in a scenario related to Adli. The agreed buy-out clause between Milan and Fiorentina was 10 million euros: deemed too high, considering the team is without European competition and needs to reduce squad numbers.
Seasonal stats for the Rossoneri: 8 appearances (one start), 143 minutes, zero goals, zero assists, average rating 5.75.
Kyle Walker
Among the three, he was the closest to remaining with the Rossoneri. Up to a certain point – let`s say early April – he was among the best: providing experience, sharp focus, and leadership for his teammates. Then, after an elbow fracture (requiring surgery), the situation deteriorated. Walker lost his starting position and couldn`t reclaim it, with some suggesting coinciding off-field issues. It`s a shame because the English international immediately became a fan favourite – everyone loved it when, during warm-ups, Kyle would `snort` water upwards as was his habit – who saw in him the strong and determined attitude that many teammates lacked. Furthermore, there was a moment, not a brief one, when the buy-out option seemed almost guaranteed. However, once Walker lost his place, the limited minutes given by Conceiçao made it clear his future was negative. The buy-out clause agreed with City was 5 million euros. A more than reasonable figure, but the same logic as with Sottil applied: without European competition and needing a significant squad overhaul, Milan decided to allocate those funds elsewhere.
Seasonal stats for the Rossoneri: 16 appearances (11 starts), 1,047 minutes, zero goals, zero assists, average rating 5.73.
