Ignazio Abate announces AC Milan Primavera departure

Ignazio Abate is leaving AC Milan.

The Primavera coach is leaving the Rossonero in search of a senior post.

Former fullback Abate leaves as his contract expires this summer. He said: "Today the last match, ready for the professionals.

"I wanted to thank those who believed in me, already entrusting me with such an important category last year. From Paolo Maldini to Ricky Massara, to the current management who re-chose me by carrying forward a young people's project: from Furlani to D'Ottavio to Moncada. So I personally wanted to thank them, this was my last match with the Milan Primavera and let's say that I'm ready to go with the big boys in a professional championship.

"I'm bringing this group of guys with me, we've bonded a lot beyond that of the field from a human point of view. I hope to see them on big stages, because if they believe in it, I am convinced that they can do it."