Milan thanked Franck Kessié on social media, while the Ivory Coast international revealed that Barcelona coach Xavi played a crucial role in his move to the Nou Camp.
The former Rossoneri star joined the Catalans on a free transfer after the end of his contract with Milan. Barcelona confirmed his signing on Monday, revealing that Kessié now has a €500m release clause.
Kessié rejected several contract extension offers from the Serie A giants and signed his contract with Barcelona in March.
“It’s a great opportunity,” Kessie told Mundo Deportivo, as quoted by Football Espana.
“I really want to begin and do my best for this team. When a great coach like Xavi [Hernandez] calls you, who has been a great player, you see that all your efforts have been worth it. I can’t wait to start working with him and my teammates.”
Milan thanked their former midfielder on social media shortly after the announcement from Barcelona.
Kessié scored 37 goals in 223 appearances with Milan, winning the Scudetto in his final year at the club.
He is one of the four Milan players who left the Rossoneri at the end of their contracts during the last year.
Gigio Donnarumma and Hakan Calhanoglu walked out of the club for nothing in the summer of 2021, followed by Kessié and Alessio Romagnoli this summer.