Berlusconi: Don't be afraid of this change

AC Milan honorary president Silvio Berlusconi says fans should 'stay calm'.

　
There has been criticicsm from the fans on the sale of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and defender Thiago Silva to Paris Saint Germain.
　
Berlusconi said: 'My message to the fans would be to stay calm. The AC Milan that we knew in the past was not always at the highest level, which is how it goes for every team in the history of the sport. It's enough that the team retain its character, its AC Milan personality, and that there always be the mission of taking to the pitch to win and entertain. Of setting an example and image that the fans should never be ashamed of. I don't believe that the owner or directors of Milan could suddenly stop appreciating the esteem of our fans.
　
'I can tell our fans to stay calm. There's the possibility of building an attractive and effective team, even within an economic framework that no longer allows for spending sprees. I advise them not be afraid of this change, and to be patient.
　
'We might not pull it off in one season, but we'll build a team of young players that will begin a winning cycle; I'm completely optimistic for both the team and the future.'
　
He added: 'We'll certainly change something for the future. A crisis has arrived that is unparalleled in history and football cannot escape from this. At the same time it will be possible to make good purchases, seeking out talent around the world.
　
'We made a decision that could not be passed up regarding PSG and their purchase of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva. When considering the income generated by the sale, as well as the savings on wages, the deal has put the club's books in complete safety for the near future.
　
'We didn't have any intention of selling either Thiago or Ibrahimovic, so much so that we initially told Leonardo no. Our hearts won out over budgetary reasons. Then PSG continued to insist, but weighing heavily in our assessment was the fact that financial fair play comes into action next season. Our calculations made us see that only with this sacrifice could we put our accounts in order for the next 3-4 years. My heart was crying, and that's no exaggeration.'　
　
Aug. 3, 2012.