"At the end of the game on Tuesday night against Arsenal, the fans were great, they applauded because they too realised that unfortunately we cannot always win and we are grateful for their understanding," said the Australian goalkeeper.

"Now we must bounce back in the league and win fourth place. I'm sorry to be leaving a competition as prestigious as the Champions League, but now Milan must find the energy and strength necessary to continue.

"In recent months we have suffered because of many tight matches, we now have the opportunity to prepare better for each game and win many important points."