Ignazio Abate has shared his thoughts on the experience as Milan Primavera coach and thanked Stefano Pioli for the time they have spent working together.
The former Milan full-back spoke to TMW (via Radio Rossonera) about the time he has spent coaching the young players, with the season ending after a playoff defeat against Lazio.
As Abate explains, he has spent two very intense seasons as the Primavera coach and he has particularly enjoyed leading Milan in the UEFA Youth League, a tournament that the Rossoneri have been particularly impressive in.
“It’s a wonderful experience, they’ve been two intense and beautiful years, working with young people enriches you, even on a human level. The Youth League allows you to compete with top-level teams in Europe and we were lucky enough to do it, the boys and I will carry it with us. I couldn’t ask for anything better for me and the kids. I think the time has come to compete with the greats,” Abate explained.
Pioli has not left Milan as head coach but Abate did not hold back in his praise for the Italian, explaining how he was able to learn a lot from him and send the most talented players for first-team experience.
“I just have to thank him, they were two good years, in which I was lucky enough to be in close contact with him. He made me grow, we talked often and, like never before this year, five or six of my boys have moved up to the first team and I’m happy they gave a hand. It’s an incredible thing, no one in Europe has brought so many of them to the first team on a permanent basis. I’m close to the coach and I wish him good luck for the future,” Abate said.
Finally, Abate spoke about young striker Francesco Camarda, who grabbed the headlines by becoming the youngest-ever Serie A debutant at 15 years old but also scored an incredible number of goals under the guidance of Abate.
“He has great talent, we chose to bring him to the Primavera. He started with difficulties, he plays four years over his age, it’s normal and it wasn’t easy. After one or two months he demonstrated his qualities, he had 4-5 months of absolute joy. I hope he resolves his personal issues, I wish him a great future at the club,” he said.
As Abate alludes to, there is a problem with Camarda and Milan right now as the 16-year-old is yet to sign a new contract.