Mike Maignan Penalty Save Spurs AC Milan Derby Win Amidst Contract Crisis

AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan delivered a heroic performance in the Milan derby. His crucial penalty save secured a vital 1-0 victory over Inter Milan. The match took place at San Siro stadium on Saturday night. This win keeps Milan firmly in the Serie A title race.

However, the celebration is shadowed by major off-field concerns. Maignan’s contract expires in just a few months. Tense renewal talks have completely broken down, raising the real prospect of a free transfer exit.

Maignan’s Decisive Moment and Inter’s Frustration

With the score at 1-0 to Milan, Inter were awarded a penalty in the 73rd minute. Former Milan player Hakan Calhanoglu stepped up to take it. His conversion rate from the spot was nearly perfect for both clubs.

Maignan read the situation perfectly. He stayed patient and guessed correctly, diving to his left to make a stunning save. The denial was Calhanoglu’s first missed penalty in eight seasons of Italian football, according to match statistics.

That save preserved the lead earned by Christian Pulisic‘s first-half goal. Maignan also made several other key stops throughout the match. His overall performance drew high praise from pundits and former players alike.

Stalled Contract Talks and Chelsea Interest

Despite his essential role, Maignan’s future at the club is in serious doubt. His current deal runs out at the end of June. Negotiations for a new contract have been stalled for months.

Reports from Italian media, including Football Italia, indicate a significant gap between the parties. Maignan’s camp was reportedly promised a salary of €5 million net per season. The club’s formal offer was substantially lower, leading to a breakdown in communication.

This situation has alerted other top European clubs. AC Milan already rejected a formal offer from Chelsea last summer. The risk of losing their star goalkeeper for free in a few months is now very high.

The Broader Impact on Milan’s Season

Maignan’s form has been a cornerstone of Milan’s campaign. This was his second penalty save in recent weeks, having also denied Roma’s Paulo Dybala. His leadership and consistency provide a solid foundation for the team.

The derby win places Milan second in the Serie A table. They are now just two points behind league leaders Roma. The three points were critical for momentum and confidence.

For Inter, the defeat is a setback in their own title ambitions. It highlights their recurring struggle to break down top-tier defensive units. The search for solutions will continue for manager Simone Inzaghi.

Mike Maignan’s penalty save was a moment of pure class, but it underscores a deepening contract crisis at AC Milan. The club must now navigate the urgent dilemma of securing their world-class goalkeeper or facing a monumental free transfer loss this summer.

Dropping this nugget your way

Why are Mike Maignan’s contract talks with AC Milan stalled?

Talks are stalled due to a disagreement over salary. Maignan’s representatives expected an offer around €5 million net per year, but the club’s proposal was significantly lower. This gap has led to a complete breakdown in communications since March.

Which club tried to sign Maignan last summer?

English Premier League side Chelsea made a formal offer for Mike Maignan last summer. AC Milan rejected the proposal at that time, choosing to keep their goalkeeper despite the known contract risk.

How important was Maignan’s save in the derby?

It was decisive. The save preserved Milan’s 1-0 lead in the 73rd minute against a direct title rival. It denied Inter an equalizer and secured three crucial points, fundamentally impacting the Serie A standings.

Has Maignan saved other penalties this season?

Yes. Earlier in April, he saved a penalty from Roma’s Paulo Dybala. That save also contributed directly to a Milan victory, showcasing his repeated importance in big moments.

What happens if Maignan leaves as a free agent?

If Maignan leaves for free, AC Milan would receive no transfer fee for a world-class player. This would be a major financial and sporting blow, forcing the club to find a suitable replacement with no incoming funds to offset the cost.

Where does AC Milan stand in Serie A now?

After the derby win, AC Milan sits in second place in Serie A. They are two points behind first-place Roma with several matches remaining in the season.