Leonardo takes on new role
Tuesday, April 1, 2003
Article summary
AC Milan midfield player Leonardo has retired but will stay on at the club in an administrative role.
Article body
AC Milan midfield player Leonardo has retired from football at the age of 34. The former Brazilian international announced his decision at a press conference held today in Milan.
'So many things to do'
"I decided to retire from football before the end of the season just because I have so many things to do off the pitch that I do not have the time to be 100 per cent focused on playing," Leonardo said. The Brazilian played his last match for the club against Brescia Calcio on 22 December. "I'm really happy to have finished my career playing my last match at the San Siro with the Milan shirt," he said.
Galliani comments
During the press conference Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani confirmed that Leonardo would continue to work for the club. "Yesterday Leonardo's contract as a player was terminated," he said. "Starting from today he will begin a new adventure with a new contract. He will be the vice-president's assistant. Leo will work at every operating level at the club."
Charity work
Leonardo will act as an intermediary between the players and the club and will also continue to be responsible for the 'Milan Foundation' - a charity project started this year by the Rossoneri. "I decided to continue living in Milan and working for a club who have always shown me their trust and respect," he said. "I'm really happy and excited and I look forward to starting in this new role."
Key member
The Brazilian joined Milan from Paris Saint-Germain FC in 1997 and was a key member of the side that won the Serie A title in 1998/99, scoring 12 goals in 27 matches. He returned to Milan last October after loan spells at São Paolo FC and CR Flamengo.
Globe-trotting career
Leonardo began his professional career at Flamengo in 1986 and has since played for six different sides on three continents, including PSG, Kashima Antlers and Valencia CF, his first European side whom he joined in 1991. Capped 56 times by Brazil, Leonardo scored eight times at international level and played at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup finals.
