It is 2023, and AC Milan remain one of the greatest clubs in the world today. From the early days when it was known as Milan Football and Cricket Club, the club has always been a force to reckon with. With several trophies to boost this claim, it is no surprise that this club has etched its name in the history of football.
Legends have graced the San Siro, and the memories created there will never be forgotten by every true soccer fan. But who is responsible for these amazing memories, if not the greatest players who have played in AC Milan? Who are these fantastic players? Let’s find out together.
Marco Van Basten
Meet one of the most influential players in Milan’s history, Marco Van Basten. With high precision in terms of goal-scoring, Marco made a difference every time he played football. As a result of his impact, AC Milan was a force to reckon with in the 1980s/1990s.
However, injuries were never kind to the talented chap and he soon had to retire at the age of 31 after playing for just 7 years at AC Milan. During his time, Marco won two Ballon d’Or, three Series A cups and two European cups to seal off the illustrious but short career he had.
Gunnar Nordahl
The most important part of football is scoring goals and Nordahl was the master of that. With his exceptional ball-striking and goal-scoring ability, this striker produced 221 goals in 268 appearances for Milan. With this record, he stands as the record scorer for AC Milan today. In the history of Serie A, only Platini can match up to his record as 3 times consecutive top scorer.
Such legends of football influenced not only the sports sector but the entertainment industry too. Nowadays, you can find a lot of games dedicated to AC Milan and other outstanding football clubs at the best payout casino and gaming platforms.
With his talent, Nordahl scared defenders at the San Siro and in various away matches. This set the pace for Milan’s rise to the top in the 50s and 60s. During his playing days, Milan won Serie A and the Latin Cup twice.
Gianni Rivera
The talent in Rivera was undeniable and his career had a lot to show for it. As one of the best midfielders to ever play for the club, Rivera played 658 matches. In the midfield, he was a star as he made passes on passes and interceptions after interceptions to help the club clinch some of its titles.
As a result of his leadership qualities, Gianni captained the squad for 13 years of the 19 he played for the club. During this period, he and the rest of the team won the European Cup in 1963 and 1969.
These were the first two European cups Milan won and with these trophies, they set Milan on the path to becoming the greatest club in the world. At the end of his career, Gianni retired as a Ballon d’Or winner with two European cups, three Italian cups and one Scudetto to mention a few.
Franco Baresi
As one of the greatest sweepers to ever exist, Baresi excelled in the defensive area for AC Milan. He was spectacular on the field and there was no denying his talent. In the 20 years he spent at AC Milan, he captained the team for 15 years leading them to various wins and trophies.
With a quick anticipation for the ball and awesome tackling ability, his legendary prowess earned him a lot of praise. As a result of his leadership skills, his teammates named him “II Capitano”.
The world adored Baresi, and even now football fans who explore updated ranking of the best Aussie online casinos, sometimes find slots which depict the history of Baresi and AC Milan. During his time at the club, Baresi won three European trophies and five Scudetti among many other titles. With these achievements, AC Milan became one of the best clubs in the world.
Paolo Maldini
With 902 appearances in red and black, it is no surprise that Paolo Maldini is the greatest player to ever play for AC Milan. This amazing defender is known for his versatility which allowed him to excel in both the centre-back and left-back positions.
Countless times, he single-handedly determined the outcome of the match with his sharp defending and passing skills. He started playing for AC Milan when he was 17 and he grew up with the club, playing matchday after matchday to put the club where it is today.
Whether he was on the field or off, Maldini had a heart filled with love for this club and he spared no effort in showing it. During his time, Maldini won five European cups, seven Scudetti and several other trophies totalling 21 major trophies in the amazing 25 years he spent at the club.
