Breaking News: Antonio Cassano officially joins AC Milan
Antonio Cassano has finally made his much anticipated move to Serie A giants AC Milan. Il Talentino di Bari had been training with Rossoneri squad ever since the winter break in Serie A started. A statement on the club’s official website simply read:
“AC Milan announce the acquisition of http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Antonio-Cassano-c6302”
The mercurial forward, renowned for his fiery temper, had a public falling out with Sampdoria club President, Riccardo Garrone. Even though what exactly was said between the two remains a mystery, it prompted Garrone to apply for termination of the player’s
contract. Italian footballing authorities took their time and the final verdict was given in favour of Cassano.
However, the relationship between the two parties was beyond repairs by that point and a divorce was imminent. AC Milan made their interest public and the player was acquired after paying Real Madrid 5 million Euros – Real Madrid sold Cassano to Blucerchiati
on the condition that Galacticos would be paid 5 million Euros upon his next transfer. Reports indicate that Cassano, Milan and Garrone contributed to raise the finances.
Details of the transfer and contract were not made public by Rossoneri. However, earlier reports indicate that Il Talentino has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with Milanese club. Cassano will earn 2.8 million Euros in wages annually.
Since both Robinho and Ibrahimovic will be out of the game against Cagliari on Thursday, Cassano is expected to make his Rossoneri debut against Isolani. Cassano’s move to San Siro has made AC Milan firm favourites for Scudetto honours come the end of season.
Furthermore, contrary to common belief, former Sampdoria no. 99 will be able to spearhead the Rossoneri attack in the Champions League. UEFA relaxed the ‘cup-tied’ rules last season.
“From next season, if a player's club is eliminated and he signs for a new club by the end of the summer transfer window on September 1, he can play for his new club in either competition,” UEFA general secretary Gianni Infantino had said.
Since Sampdoria were eliminated in the Champions League preliminary round – Il Doria played Werder Bremen and lost 4 – 5 on aggregate – Cassano can now play Champions League with Milan.
You can also read about the tactical implications of Cassano’s arrival by clicking
http://www.senore.com/Football-Special-Report-Antonio-Cassano-joins-AC-Milan-Tactical-implications-a50864.
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