Andriy Shevchenko thanked Milan for their support for Ukraine and commented on the recent growth of Italian football.

The Rossoneri have been supporting Ukraine through their ‘AC Milan for Peace’ programme, carrying out work from fundraising to charity auctions and collecting goods to send over to the nation. Milan also created a special edition shirt, paying tribute to the team’s Champions League success in 2003, with funds being diverted to Ukraine.

Speaking to MilanTV, Shevchenko thanked Milan for their hard work and support during this tough period.

“I would like to thank the Milan Foundation for the support it has given in this time of war for Ukraine and all the Milan fans who have participated in fundraising. 

“We have realised a beautiful project with the Milan City Council to help Ukrainian refugees and it is going well. 

“All thanks to Milan Foundation and the Milan fans who participated. The whole world of sport has responded well, not only with words but also with deeds.”

He commented on how the raised funds will be used to help, drawing attention to the difficulties faced by those living in the city of Irpin.

“A few weeks ago I was in Irpin, Ukraine, where 80% of the population has been destroyed. The stadium, where I used to go to play as a child, is completely destroyed, the grandstand, the locker rooms, and the synthetic field, which is full of bomb holes. 

“But children were playing there when I went. I asked the mayor what could be done for the city and he told me: the stadium. I asked why, since there are no schools or hospitals, and he told me that people are working so hard and we need to give the children the chance to play and to play sport. 

“What we are doing with Milan Foundation is a project, reminiscent of the Manchester final, a special moment both for me – one of the most beautiful moments of my career – and for the Milan fans. I want to thank everyone who bought this shirt.”

The former Milan star spoke about the growth of Italian football in recent years.

“Italian football is growing. There is more internal competition, the level of athleticism and intensity has risen so much and you see many good matches. There are many Scudetto worthy teams.”

Shevchenko gave his thoughts on coach Stefano Pioli and the work he’s done in the Lombardy capital.

“Pioli has done a great job. I have a lot of respect and admiration for him, he has managed to transform the team into a winning team.”

Finally, Shevchenko discussed his happiness at seeing Milan lift the league title last season.

“It was wonderful to see Milan lift the Scudetto after so many years. It was a thrill to see so many Milan fans celebrate.”

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