AC Milan wing-back Ignazio Abate hopes to follow in the footsteps of club legends like Paolo Maldini by forging out a long career with the club.
The 26-year-old has been with the club for 10 years already although often found himself loaned out for much of his early Rossoneri career although his contract with the club is up at the end of the season.
“A contract renewal? I am very attached to this club and the environment here at Milanello where I really enjoy my football,” he said when speaking with Gazzetta dello Sport about a possible extension. “I see myself here for a long time.
“All I can say is that my desire is to stay, that is what I want.”
He also said that since his return, Kaka has been a great role model to the younger players at the club and called upon Mario Balotelli to improve his temperament.
“At Milan, you should not simply arrive, punch the clock in and then go home and in that sense, Kaka is a great example to follow,” the Italian international went on.
“Balotelli is no longer a kid and now must grow as quickly as possible. He has great potential, among the best in the world, and he must realise it.”
