AC Milan’s newly reappointed coach Massimiliano Allegri used his introductory press conference on Monday to declare that forward Rafael Leão and goalkeeper-captain Mike Maignan will remain with the club for the coming season, ending weeks of transfer speculation. Leão had been linked with Barcelona and Bayern Munich, while Maignan was the subject of advanced talks with Chelsea. “Rafa can do excellent things next season,” Allegri said, adding that the 26-year-old Portuguese winger is entering the age “where a player performs at his peak.” Leão, under contract at San Siro until 2028 and valued at about €70 million, is expected to be a cornerstone of Allegri’s rebuilt attack. The coach confirmed that a proposed move taking Maignan to Stamford Bridge is “completely off,” noting his satisfaction that the France international decided to stay. Allegri called the 29-year-old “one of the best goalkeepers in Europe” and reaffirmed him as team captain. Allegri, back at Milan after 11 years away, said the club’s immediate goal is to secure a return to the UEFA Champions League. The squad began pre-season training at Milanello on Monday, with the coach stressing daily dedication ahead of an August Coppa Italia opener that will serve as an early test of the new campaign.