Emotional Night in Milan as Two Veterans Says ‘Arrivederci’

Saturday was a night of farewells at San Siro as several first-team stars waved goodbye to Milan alongside long-serving manager Stefano Pioli. Salernitana spoiled the Rossoneri’s parting celebrations, hauling back a two-goal deficit to hold the 19-time Serie A champions to a 3-3 draw.

Simon Kjaer, the Danish wall, ended his four-year association with Milan. Despite joining the club towards the autumn of his playing career, the veteran defender steadied the sinking ship and helped the Rossoneri become a permanent first-team fixture in Serie A again.

“I want to thank everyone. It’s not easy for me to stay here. I have to thank the club, the coach, the staff, you fans. You have brought me joys that I didn’t know were possible in the world of football,” Kjaer said.

“My feeling here is the same as I have in the national team for 15 years. This group here made me have fun every day. 

“Every day I go from Milan to Milanello, with the mountains behind me, is one of the greatest joys of my life, shared with you all.”

Olivier Giroud, one of the crucial components of the 2021/22 Scudetto-winning season, took the microphone to address the Milan fans one last time. 

“Good evening San Siro. I want to thank the club for their trust and all the managers who welcomed me like a brother into this family,” the Frenchman said. 

“When we were little, Simon and I dreamed of this Milan. Today, we have made a journey that makes us proud. I will never forget these three seasons at Milan. FORZA MILAN!“