Story Summary
HC Milano have added Italian international centre Diego Kostner to their squad, with the 34-year-old joining the ICEHL newcomers after spending much of his senior career in Switzerland’s top division.
Milano confirmed the right-shot forward’s arrival. Kostner said the move came together quickly and that he expected to go straight onto the ice after arriving.
The signing follows a strong opening stretch for Milano. After seven games, the Italian side have 15 points from five wins and two defeats.
Key Facts
- HC Milano have confirmed the signing of 34-year-old Italian international Diego Kostner.
- Kostner is a centre and shoots right.
- He has played 596 league games in Switzerland’s NLA/NL since making his HC Lugano debut in 2011.
- Across 16 seasons in the NL, Kostner represented HC Lugano and Ambri-Piotta.
- Kostner said he already knows several Milano players through the Italian national team.
- Milano have 15 points after seven ICEHL games, having recorded five wins and two losses.
IHM Discussion
Kostner brings a substantial body of experience from one of Europe’s stronger domestic leagues into Milano’s first ICEHL campaign. His 596 Swiss top-flight appearances provide a clear measure of his senior-level background, while his familiarity with national-team colleagues should offer an immediate point of connection within the dressing room.
The player’s own comments stressed the speed of the move and his readiness to get on the ice without delay. Milano’s announcement does not set out contract length or financial terms, but it does confirm a further addition to a group that has begun the season with five victories from seven outings.
Why It Matters
For Milano, the addition is notable because it combines international experience with a long record of playing at Swiss top-flight level. Kostner is also joining a club already carrying positive early-season momentum rather than one searching for its first results.
His existing relationships with Italian national-team teammates may help the new signing settle into the environment, although his on-ice role has not been specified.
IHM Market Outlook
Milano have returned to the market despite their productive start to the ICEHL season. The club have added an established centre with extensive NL experience, but no contract duration, salary detail or further transfer plans have been announced.
Mini Q&A
Who have HC Milano signed?
HC Milano have signed 34-year-old Italian international centre Diego Kostner.
What is Diego Kostner’s experience in Switzerland?
He made his HC Lugano debut in 2011 and has played 596 games in Switzerland’s NLA/NL, also representing Ambri-Piotta.
How have Milano started the ICEHL season?
Milano have 15 points from seven games, with five wins and two defeats.
Coach Mark Comment
An experienced centre can be valuable in a new group because the position demands constant connection between the defensive and attacking parts of the ice. Kostner’s background in Switzerland and his familiarity with some national-team colleagues give Milano a useful foundation, but the practical fit will depend on how quickly he absorbs the club’s habits and combinations.
What Comes Next
Kostner has said he expects to arrive and go directly onto the ice. Milano have not announced a specific debut date or a defined role for the new signing.
IHM Final View
Milano’s signing of Diego Kostner adds a seasoned Italian international to an encouraging early ICEHL start.