Giampaolo Pazzini confirms Hellas Verona move after AC Milan release

Italy striker Giampaolo Pazzini has confirmed on social media that he is now a Hellas Verona player after being released from AC Milan.

The 30-year-old spent three seasons at San Siro but, having scored 16 goals in his opening campaign, he gradually fell out of favour under a series of different managers before being let go.

Pazzini wrote on his Facebook page: "Today begins a new professional challenge, I'm really happy and excited. I can't wait to start the season with an ambitious team that really wanted and believed in me.

"I thank the President Maurizio Setti and all at Hellas Verona FC for this great opportunity, I will do my best to repay his confidence and that of the fans."

Pazzini was the first man to score at the new Wembley, striking for the Italy Under-21s after just 25 seconds of their 3-3 draw against England Under-21s in March 2007.