AC Milan

In the heart of Italy’s fashion capital resides a football team draped in red and black – AC Milan. Born in 1899, Milan is one of the oldest and most successful clubs in Italian football. Their journey in Serie A is filled with triumphs and heartaches, with 18 league titles standing as monuments of their enduring success. Their international exploits are equally notable, having clinched the prestigious Champions League trophy seven times, only second to Real Madrid. No wonder they proudly bear the nickname “Il Diavolo” – The Devil!

Legends in Red and Black

AC Milan’s journey to success was bolstered by the talent of footballing legends. The club was graced by the likes of Paolo Maldini, whose extraordinary defensive prowess made him one of the most admired players of his era. Maldini wore only red and black throughout his illustrious career, becoming the symbol of loyalty and devotion.

Then there’s the Dutch trio of the late 80s and early 90s – Marco van Basten, Ruud Gullit, and Frank Rijkaard. They left an indelible mark, taking Milan’s game to unexplored heights. Their departures saw them spreading their talents across various teams, with Van Basten retiring at Milan, while Gullit moved on to Sampdoria and Chelsea, and Rijkaard to Ajax.

In recent years, Zlatan Ibrahimović made his mark on AC Milan. The towering Swedish striker, after stints with teams like Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester United, brought his unique blend of strength and skill to San Siro, ensuring the Devil’s roar remains loud and clear.

The Duel of Giants

AC Milan’s rivalries in Serie A are the stuff of legends. The biggest of them all is the “Derby della Madonnina” with Inter Milan. The city divides in red and blue when these two giants of Milanese football lock horns. The intense rivalry originates from a split within the club back in 1908.

In addition to the city rivalry, clashes with Juventus have given fans numerous memorable moments. Outside Serie A, battles with Barcelona in the Champions League have been the source of nail-biting soccer drama.

San Siro: The Devil’s Den

The San Siro stadium, officially known as Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, is the cathedral of Milanese soccer. A melting pot of passion and emotions, it’s a place where you can truly experience the intensity of Italian football.

For those looking to join the passionate chorus of Milan’s ultras, the ‘Curva Sud’ is the place to be. Here, the atmosphere is electric, and tickets are relatively affordable, priced around €45-€69.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed view of the game, try the ‘Tribuna Rossa.’ This section offers an excellent panoramic view of the pitch, albeit at a higher price range, typically €100-€150. But, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s worth every euro!

Experiencing the ‘Milanismo’

Being at San Siro is more than just about watching a game. It’s about experiencing the rich history and culture of the club. From the stadium tour that takes you through the iconic dressing rooms to the AC Milan museum showcasing its rich history, there’s a lot to absorb. Don’t forget to pick up some red and black souvenirs at the official club store!

AC Milan isn’t just a football club. It’s a tapestry of unforgettable moments, legendary figures, and intense rivalries. As the red and black colors continue to flutter in the Milanese wind, the legacy of this mighty club is poised to grow, captivating soccer lovers for generations to come.

There are Some Great Teams

• Dual Home: AC Milan shares its home ground, the San Siro, with city rivals Inter Milan. It’s one of the most iconic examples of stadium sharing in the world of football.
• Unique Records: AC Milan holds the record for the longest unbeaten run in Serie A. Their unbeaten streak lasted for 58 games from May 1991 to March 1993.
• AC Milan and Politics: Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi was the president of AC Milan from 1986 to 2017. During his tenure, the club enjoyed its most successful period, winning numerous domestic and international titles.
• Women’s Team: AC Milan also has a women’s team, which competes in the Women’s Serie A. The team was established relatively recently, in 2018, reflecting the growing interest in women’s football.
• Notable Coaches: AC Milan has been coached by some of football’s most notable figures. This includes Arrigo Sacchi, whose team in the late 1980s and early 1990s is often regarded as one of the best in the history of club football.
• The AC in AC Milan: Many might wonder what the ‘AC’ in AC Milan stands for. It actually stands for “Associazione Calcio,” which translates to ‘football association.’ It’s a common prefix in Italian football but is usually dropped in casual conversation.