Veteran Nesta leaves AC Milan after 10 years

10 May 2012 14:47

AC Milan's World Cup-winning defender Alessandro Nesta confirmed Thursday he will quit the Serie A side after ten years with speculation rife that he intends to join MLS side New York Red Bulls.

"This is my last season at Milan," the 36-year-old told a press conference.

"I have taken stock, and the rhythm of Serie A, the Champions League and the Italian Cup meant I couldn't play all the time.

"It doesn't suit me to sit on the bench and if I don't feel important I prefer to stay at home."

The 78-times capped Italy centre-half said he would like to play in the United States, where he has been linked with a move to the New York Red Bulls, but refused to confirm a move.

"I'd go gladly," said Nesta. "It would be a wonderful experience. I'd gladly go across the Atlantic but as long as nothing has been signed I'm saying nothing. And there are other great and interesting opportunities like that one."

If he did join the New York club he would link up with other former Europe-based stars including France's Thierry Henry and Mexican Rafael Marquez.

Nesta started his playing career with Lazio and captained the Rome side to the Serie A title in 2000 before heading for Milan in 2002.

With the rossoneri he won the Serie A title in 2004 and 2011, two Champions League titles in 2003 and 2007, and the Club World Cup in 2007.

He was also in the side that lost the Champions League final in 2005 to Liverpool despite Milan leading 3-0 at half-time.

Nesta's career has been plagued by injuries ever since Italy's triumphant 2006 World Cup campaign in Germany.

Source: AFP