Italian football legend, Gennaro Gattusohas announced he is leaving his role as AC Milan head coach.

The Rossoneri failed to qualify for Champions League football despite a season-ending 3-2 victory against SPAL on Sunday.

Today, the former Milan midfielder, whose contract runs until 2021, confirmed he is leaving the club and will not be taking any compensation.

‘Deciding to leave Milan’s bench is not easy but it’s a decision I had to make,’ he said, according to Italian newspaper Repubblica.

‘There was not a precise moment in which I decided, it was the sum of these 18 months as coach of a team that for me will never be like the others. Months that I lived with great passion, unforgettable months.

‘Mine is a painful but thoughtful choice.

‘Am I giving up a two-year contract? Yes, because my story with Milan can never be a question of money.’

In a statement, Ivan Gazidis, the club’s chief executive, said: ‘I have had the privilege to get to know Rino Gattuso over the past six months since my arrival at the Club.

‘Rino has given everything to our efforts this season, and has worked tirelessly, always taking full responsibility, putting the club above every other consideration. I want to say from the bottom of our hearts, thank you Rino.’