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So, its now out in the open. AC Milan legend Andrea Pirlo is all set to leave the club at the end of this season. The playmaker who recently won the Serie A with the Rossoneri made his intentions clear tonight in a press conference. On his arrival at the club’s headquarter tonight, the 32 year old veteran said,
“I’m here to say goodbye. After ten unforgettable years I want to thank the club and the fans for their affection.”
Pirlo, who suffered a string of injuries this season said the decision to part company was mutual and that he is yet to decide upon his future despite rumors being rife that he has already agreed to a new deal with Juventus.
“I haven’t yet spoken to Juventus and we (with Milan) didn’t speak of any offers. It was already in my mind to leave, it was a mutual decision.”
The Italian international started his career at Brescia joined Inter in 1998 before enjoying two loan spells with Reggina and Brescia in the 1999-00 and 2001. He was eventually transferred to the other side of Milan at the beginning of the 2001 season for a reported sum of about £20 million. It was at Milan where Pirlo won most of his accolades including 2 Champions League titles and 2 Serie A titles.
Star striker Filippo Inzaghi and defender Alessandro Nesta have decided to extend their stay with the Rossoneri for another year, the club’s website reported.
Milan are currently on a “contract extension” spree with defender Thiago Silva, midfielder Van Bommel and reserve goalkeeper Flavio Roma already agreeing to prolong their stay. Meanwhile, another veteran Clarence Seedorf is yet to sign on the dotted line. Brazilian side Botafogo are more than eager to sign Seedorf.
“I don’t know if I will stay next season. [The] meeting went well. I don’t know if I will stay at Milan next season, but it was a very friendly meeting and we’ll talk again next week. We want to end the season with a victory against Udinese first, then we’ll discuss it.” – Seedorf
