Edmilson said: "I had everything almost closed with AC Milan, including the duration of the contract. We decided on a commitment of two years. The wage subject also was practically closed. It was just left to Milan to talk with Barca.

"However, knee surgery ended the move. I couldn't mislead Leonardo, who is a great friend, and so informed Milan of my injury."

He added: "I told Leonardo that I didn't know when I would be able to play again - tomorrow, November, December, I just did not know."