Silvio Berlusconi, the former owner of AC Milan and ex-Italian Prime Minister, has passed away at the age of 86 after a two-year battle with myelomonocytic leukemia. Berlusconi’s influence on football, particularly on AC Milan, was profound and lasting. His death marks the end of an era for the club and the sport.
Berlusconi’s Impact on AC Milan
Berlusconi took over the reins of I Rossoneri in 1986, propelling the club to the pinnacle of European football. His strategic signings of Dutch stars Marco van Basten, Ruud Gullit, and Frank Rijkaard, coupled with the appointment of renowned managers Arrigo Sacchi and later Fabio Capello, laid the foundation for a team that would dominate the European Cup in the late 80s and early 90s.
During this golden era, Milan clinched three European Cups/UEFA Champions Leagues, four Serie A titles, and two Intercontinental Cups. Under Capello’s leadership, the team also embarked on a remarkable 58-game unbeaten streak between 1991 and 1993, earning the nickname ‘Gli invinibili’ (The Invincibles).
Adriano Galliani e tutto AC Monza piangono affranti la scomparsa di Silvio Berlusconi: “Un vuoto che non potrà mai essere colmato, per sempre con noi. Grazie di tutto Presidente”. pic.twitter.com/URLk802bcJ
— AC Monza (@ACMonza) June 12, 2023
A Trophy-Laden Tenure
Throughout Berlusconi’s tenure as club owner and president, AC Milan amassed a staggering 29 trophies, including five European Cups. His leadership and vision were instrumental in the club’s success, shaping its history and leaving an indelible mark on European football.
In 2017, Berlusconi sold the club to Rossoneri Sport Luxembourg for a reported €740m, marking the end of an illustrious era.
Berlusconi’s Continued Influence in Football
Even after parting ways with Milan, Berlusconi remained a significant figure in football. He purchased Monza in 2018 and played a crucial role in their ascent from Serie C to Serie A. Monza continues to compete in Serie A, having had a successful 2022/23 season.
As the football world mourns the loss of Silvio Berlusconi, his legacy lives on in the clubs he influenced and the countless trophies his teams won. His contributions to football, particularly to AC Milan, will forever be remembered.
