Former AC Milan midfielder Demetrio Albertini has urged fans of the club not to boo Franck Kessie as they did during Sunday’s win over Sampdoria.
Kessie was jeered and whistled when the teams were read out at San Siro ahead of the cup quarter-final clash against Lazio last midweek, but after a solid performance and a goal those boos turned to applause at full time, especially considering that when he scored he celebrated underneath the Curva.
However, the Ivorian’s name was jeered again before the game and when he come on during the win over Samp, with the Curva displaying a banner reading: “Those who love Milan prove it with facts. Best regards to those who are dissatisfied.”
Albertini spoke during an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport (via PianetaMilan) about a number of topics related to the 25-year-old including his apparent decision to leave the Rossoneri and the reaction of fans.
“The story of Lorenzo Insigne has taught us that. He communicated his choice for the future, but he will continue to play for Napoli with the same attachment to the shirt and the same professionalism until in the end,” he began.
“It is difficult to put myself in Franck’s shoes. I grew up with Milan, I have a different sense of belonging, probably. But Kessié was still an important player for Stefano Pioli’s team. Judging is useless: I think however that clarity is the concept to keep in mind in this type of situation.
“When a player takes the field it is right to put him in a position to express himself in the best possible way. Let’s say that booing him at this moment is out of place and is not good for Milan, as well as not doing good to the player. He wears the Milan shirt, so it’s right to support him.
On the idea that he was too far away to hear: “I disagree. The whistles are heard, all right, and they are not pleased. It is clear that the fans boo him because they are sorry about a possible farewell. I do not know how to judge the story from other points of view because I do not know the conditions – everyone is free to make the choices they want in their career, but officially communicating them would be more respectful.”
On the idea that by communicating his intentions, Kessié would make Milan’s market choices easier: “Without a doubt, the managers must have time to move to find an adequate solution. This is why I say that extending the time frame and not announcing the decision, whatever it is, it’s harmful for everyone. For Kessié himself, not just for Milan.”
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