Christian Abbiati, a Milan legend between the sticks, has only appeared once this season under former coach Mihajlovic and now under new coach Brocchi. The 38-year-old goalkeeper was stripped as number one choice by Spaniard, Diego Lopez, and also this season by 17-year-old Donnarumma. However, ever grateful Abbiati said, “I owe everything to Milan.”
Abbiati speaks about time at Milan
Abbiati was interviewed by an Italian show, Saranno Famosi, Abbiati spoke candidly of his time with the Rossoneri, and where it all began. “At the age of 16 I was a baker,” being the leader he is, always “helping the family.”
Abbiati made it clear in his interview about the sacrifices he made then to be where he is now, “I divided the day between work and training,” which in turn paid according to Cristian, “dues” to then in his eyes “found myself in this beautiful environment.”
The 38-year-old continued to send messages in which should be listened to by the younger players, “You need to have goals in life,” according to Abbiati, “with sacrifice, respect and education, can you reach them.”
Abbiati has spent 20 years with Milan and he sees the team as a “second family,” he also added subtly, “I’d like to do another year here.”
The future for Abbiati
Cristian Abbiati has up until today made 280 appearances for Milan making him a club legend. Though, his contract expires in June and up until recently there have not been any talks regarding a renewal. Abbiati still sees some hope adding, “We’ll see,” though, it seems like a longshot.
AC Milan currently sit sixth in the Seria A with an important fixture against Capri. Milan is seven points from fifth place Fiorentina who occupy the Europa League qualification spot. Milan have failed to challenge for the title and the Champions League which now makes qualifying for Europa League imperative.