On May 3, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the much-anticipated Milan youth team manager
Abbott
s contract will expire this summer. The decorated player, who came from Milan's youth training, opted for a coaching career after his retirement and achieved remarkable success in just a few years.
Abate, now 37 years old, played for Milan as a right back for many years and was a fan favorite. After retiring from playing, he quickly transitioned into coaching, proving his coaching ability one step at a time, starting as the head coach of Milan's U16 team. After taking over Milan's youth team in 2022, he led the team to two consecutive seasons of success in the Youth Champions League, not only reaching the semi-finals, but also succeeded in reaching the final this season, and trained a number of outstanding new stars for Milan's youth training system.
However, with his contract expiring, Abate's coaching career took a new turn. He is well loved by the Milan youth kids, but his heart is more eager for a new challenge. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Abate hopes to coach Milan's B team next season and play in the professional league to test his coaching ability.
It is also reported that the Milan club plans to form a B-team and play in the Serie C next season. This is undoubtedly a huge opportunity for Abate. However, only two teams in Serie A, Juventus and Atalanta, have formed a B team, and Milan will have to wait for a club in Serie C to quit in order to get a spot. In addition, Milan first-team assistant coach Bonera is also regarded as the favorite candidate for the new head coach of Milan B team.
Nevertheless, Abate has not given up his intention to compete for the position of Milan B team manager. He said that he is looking forward to coaching either the first team or the B team, and hopes to continue to contribute to Milan soccer. In the next few weeks, he will have an interview with the Milan club's senior management to understand the club's position on him and decide on his future.
There is also the possibility that Abate may choose to remain in charge of Milan's youth team for another year if he is unable to secure the Milan B team's head coaching position. He said that he has not completely ruled out this possibility, but his heart is more eager for new challenges and opportunities. The former Milan player has used his hard work and talent to continue his legendary story in the coaching position. No matter where he will go in the future, it is worth our expectation and attention.
