Billy Costacurta has defended former AC Milan teammate Kaka's decision to move to Real Madrid.

"It's a painful decision but Milan will find a great substitute. Kaka did not want to go away," Costacurta told Sky Italia.

"He is an intelligent lad and he accepted his fate for the good of Milan, finding motivation in a new adventure.

"The choice to sell Kaka inserts itself into a phase of transition for Milan that will carry the Rossoneri to other great successes."