On 16 December 1899, a group of English and Italian football enthusiasts came together in Milan to establish what would become one of the most successful football clubs in the world: Associazione Calcio Milan, or AC Milan.
Founded as the Milan Cricket and Football Club, the organisation’s head was Alfred Edwards, an Englishman and former British vice-consul in Milan. Edwards, along with Herbert Kilpin, another Englishman, laid the groundwork for what would soon be an iconic institution in Italian and global football.
Early Years and First Successes
AC Milan’s first competitive match took place in 1900, just a year after its founding. The club quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with. Milan won its first Italian championship in 1901 by defeating the heavily favoured Genoa. This victory marked the beginning of Milan’s illustrious journey in Italian football. They would go on to win two more titles in 1906 and 1907.
During this early period, the club’s colours, red and black, were chosen to represent the players’ fiery passion (red) and the opponents’ fear (black). The nickname “Rossoneri” (“Red and Blacks”) originated from the colours.
The Split and the Birth of Inter
In 1908, a dispute over the inclusion of foreign players led to a split within the club, resulting in the formation of a rival team, Internazionale, or Inter Milan. This rivalry gave birth to the Derby della Madonnina, one of the most intense and celebrated derbies in football. Despite the split, Milan maintained its standing and continued to grow in prominence.
Post-War Growth and the Arrival of International Stars
After World War II, AC Milan entered a golden era, bolstered by international stars like the Swedish trio Gunnar Gren, Gunnar Nordahl, and Nils Liedholm, collectively known as “Gre-No-Li.” With their help, Milan won the Serie A title in 1951, ending a 44-year drought. This period saw the Rossoneri cement their place as a top Italian club.
The arrival of players like Gianni Rivera in the 1960s propelled Milan to new heights. Under coach Nereo Rocco, a pioneer of the defensive “catenaccio” system, Milan secured their first European Cup (now UEFA Champions League) in 1963, defeating Benfica. Rivera’s creativity and leadership earned him the Ballon d’Or in 1969, further enhancing the club’s reputation.
The Berlusconi Era
Silvio Berlusconi purchased AC Milan in 1986. Under his ownership, Milan became a global powerhouse. Legendary coach Arrigo Sacchi implemented a revolutionary attacking style of play, with stars like Marco van Basten, Ruud Gullit, and Frank Rijkaard leading the charge. Milan won back-to-back European Cups in 1989 and 1990, along with numerous domestic titles.
The 1990s also saw Fabio Capello’s Milan achieve domestic dominance, highlighted by an unbeaten Serie A campaign in 1991-92 and a resounding 4-0 victory over Barcelona in the 1994 Champions League final.
21st Century Triumphs
The new millennium brought continued success. Under coach Carlo Ancelotti, Milan won two Champions League titles (2003 and 2007) and a Serie A title in 2004. The 2007 Champions League victory, led by stars like Paolo Maldini and Kaka, avenged their dramatic 2005 loss to Liverpool in Istanbul.
Milan’s legacy continued with their 18th Serie A title in 2011. However, the following decade brought financial challenges and a period of rebuilding. Despite this, the Rossoneri have shown resilience, regaining form with young talents and strategic investments.
AC Milan remains one of the most decorated clubs in football history, with 7 Champions League titles, 19 Serie A championships, and numerous domestic and international trophies. Their dedication to excellence, both on and off the pitch, has made them a symbol of Italian football and a beloved institution worldwide.
