Christian Abbiati believes that Cristian Brocchi should be confirmed as AC Milan coach next season, despite failing to guide them into Europe last term.
Brocchi was placed in charge following the dismissal of Sinisa Mihajlovic in April, who was sacked with the Rossoneri sixth in the Serie A standings. But a drop of one place under Brocchi and defeat in the final of the Coppa Italia to Juventus meant Milan failed to qualify for Europe for a third year running.
Goalkeeper Abbiati, who hung up his gloves at the end of the season, nevertheless believes Brocchi -- who used to be in charge of Milan's youth team -- should be given a chance next season.
"He's a young, well-prepared coach," Abbiati told Mediaset television. "He's waiting for a call and I hope it will arrive soon because he deserves it. I like his ideas a lot. Apart from the result, I think we were able to see that in the Coppa Italia final."
Meanwhile, Abbiati is trying to adjust to life after football, admitting it is not going to be easy when his former teammates return to training after their summer break.
"I'm trying not to think about football and to keep myself busy with my motorbike showroom," the 38-year-old said. "The difficult part will particularly be over the coming months."