With Paolo Maldini ending his AC Milan career after 23 years of loyal service and Carlo Ancelotti leaving for the cloudy days at Stamford Bridge, it was time for new boss Leonardo to pick his captain, surprisingly coming in the form of 32 year old midfielder Massimo Ambrosini.

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Meanwhile, veteran midfielder Massimo Ambrosini is set to sign a new contract with the Serie A outfit, and Leonardo praised the player’s dedication.

I’m happy for Max, because he is someone who has Milan in his DNA, like [Demetrio] Albertini, Maldini, [Alessandro] Costacurta, and [Franco] Baresi. He symbolises Milan,” he continued.

“My first act as coach will be to make him my first captain.”

Milan’s first major pre-season tests will be in the United States, where they will take on Club America, Chelsea, and Inter between July 19-26.

“I am really excited and proud,” he explained during a press conference on Monday, after coach Leonardo confirmed him as the next captain.

“The legacy of Maldini is huge, but more importantly was the charisma he managed to convey with his mere presence which was worth a thousand words. I feel very fortunate to wear the armband of Milan.”

Interestingly, the veteran claimed he is not likely to be the captain on every occasion and hinted it could become a shared duty amongst veteran squad members.

“I’ve been here for 15 years. I think this is something that I will share with the companions who have been in the team for so long. It is not only out of respect, but also fair,” he suggested, perhaps referring to Gennaro Gattuso and Filippo Inzaghi.

Image via CorriereDelloSport