Thiago Silva`s departure is a big blow to AC Milan, admits Antonini

Rome: AC Milan full-back Luca Antonini has admitted that the sale of Thiago Silva to Paris Saint-Germain is a big blow to the Rossoneri.

The Brazilian completed his 42 million euros move to the French capital on Saturday in the second most expensive transfer for a defender in the history of football after Rio Ferdinand`s switch from Leeds to Manchester United in 2002. Antonini acknowledged the loss of Thiago Silva as a big hit to the Serie A side`s ambitions for next season, but kept his faith in CEO Adriano Galliani`s ability to pull off a major coup in the transfer market. "Thiago is the strongest defender in the world, AC Milan have suffered a great loss. I`m sorry he is gone, he is a dear friend, we have been together for four years with the Rossoneri," Antonini told reporters at Milanello. "The club has taken this decision and we have to move on. We`re not worried, Galliani often makes big hits at the end of the transfer window." Thiago Silva joined AC Milan in 2009 from Fluminense and went on to become a key player at San Siro. Goal.com