Legendary Former AC Milan midfielder, Clarence Seedorf has announced his retirement from his lengthy playing career in order to assume the vacant coaching role at the San Siro side he served for a decade.
The Dutch veteran made more than 400 appearances over an impressive10 years with Milan, winning two Serie A and two UEFA Champions League titles. The 37-teay-old is expected to be named the new coach any moment, following Sunday’s sack of Massimiliano Allegri in the wake of a humbling 4-3 defeat to lowly Sassuolo.
“I am here to announce that I will retire from playing after 22 years”, said Seedorf, who has been playing for Botafogo since 2012.
“I leave an improved club, especially in terms of their mentality and team spirit. Milan? We will meet again. This experience of the last year and a half has made me grow up a lot and will help me in my next step as coach of Milan, who have hired me in both an elegant and correct manner.
“I like challenges and coaching Milan will be another challenge in my career. I couldn’t say no to Milan after having spent 10 years there”.
Seedorf also spoke on the difficulty of reaching the decision, as well as Brazil’s chances at summer’s World Cup.
“The sacking of Allegri was crucial to my decision. The call from [Adriano] Galliani only came yesterday. I want to travel to Milan today. If I don’t make it, then I will travel tomorrow”, he said.
“I made the decision to join Milan today, but last night was a difficult night for me. But I made the right choice. I’m very happy about the opportunity Milan have given me and I’m very motivated”.
On Brazil, he said: “I hope that Brazil can have a memorable World Cup and the national team can honour its colours. Thank you”.
