MILAN: Milan’s winter-break friendly against fourth-tier club Pro Patria was abandoned when the former European champions walked off in protest at racist chanting.

Kevin-Prince Boateng led the walk-off after being the main target of abuse. He picked up the ball in the 26th minute and kicked it towards the stand behind him. The former Tottenham and Portsmouth player then stormed off the pitch.

A player from Pro Patria attempted to talk to the Ghanaian as he departed but Boateng left the field and was quickly followed by his teammates and officials.

The midfielder applauded other sections of the crowd, who then appeared to angrily react towards the section where the chants had come from.

AC Milan’s official website was running a text commentary of the game and posted the following message on the 26th minute:

“AC Milan leaves the pitch after racist abuse by a minority of Pro Patria fans at Boateng, (Mbaye) Niang, (Urby) Emanuelson and (Sulley) Muntari. The rest of the fans in the stands disassociated themselves from such racist events.”

Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri said he was “saddened” by the events, adding: “We are disappointed and saddened by what has happened. Milan play for the right to respect all players. We need to stop these uncivilised gestures.

“We are sorry for all the other fans who came here for a beautiful day of sport. We promise to return, and we are sorry for the club and players of Pro Patria but we could not make any other decision. I hope it can be an important signal.”

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