AC Milan celebrated its 125th anniversary on December 16, 2024, with a spectacular event at San Siro, marked by the presence of club legends and poignant moments of nostalgia and pride. Despite the excitement surrounding the match against Genoa, there was also a sense of bittersweet reflection as the past mingled with the present.
The evening kicked off at 19:45 CET, one hour before the match, with a unique ceremony honoring the legends who have shaped the history of the Rossoneri. Among those present were iconic players like Marco Van Basten, Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard, and Filippo Inzaghi, each of whom carried trophies encapsulating the glory of AC Milan's storied past. The ceremony even featured a heartwarming moment as a young girl accepted the vintage football from the representative of club founder, Herbert Kilpin, before handing it off to a member of the youth squad.
Accompanying the legendary players, DJs and performers filled the stadium with music and lights, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Dancers formed the number 125 with glowing sticks, serving as both tribute and celebration of the club's significant milestone.
Adding to the emotional weight of the evening, the three-tier display engaged fans and highlighted the unity of the community supporting AC Milan. Special edition jerseys, reminiscent of the club's historical kits from 125 years ago, were donned by the current players, bridging the past and present with every kick of the ball.
While the night was filled with excitement and joy, it wasn't without its controversies. A banner unfurled by the Curva Sud read, "We honor our champions, those symbols of a Milan who no longer exists," echoing mixed feelings among the supporters. This sentiment reflected the fans' nostalgia for the club's glory days, intertwining with the contemporary struggles of the team.
Some prominent figures did not attend the celebration; Andriy Shevchenko was unable to make it due to personal reasons, and Paolo Maldini reportedly declined the invitation altogether. This absence of football icons added layers of complexity to the festivities, as fans wondered whether new legends must rise to fill the shoes of their predecessors.
The legends' parade concluded with cheers and applause, celebrating not just the past but also the resilience and spirit of the club. From Van Basten to Baresi, players engaged the crowd, showcasing the pride and passion synonymous with AC Milan. It was, without doubt, a fitting homage to the club's impressive legacy.
Even as fans celebrated, some expressed their frustrations. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the current senior advisor, faced boos during the celebration, reinforcing the divide between the club's glorious past and the challenges of the present. The reaction indicated the supporters' desire for authenticity and excellence, something they felt was lacking at times.
Nevertheless, the night at San Siro will be remembered for its grandeur—a celebration blending nostalgia with hope as the club looks toward the future. Reflecting on the banner displayed by the Curva Sud, it becomes clear: even as AC Milan stands at the confluence of its storied past and its aspirations for tomorrow, the bond between the club and its fans remains unwavering.
The legacy of AC Milan is not merely confined to the trophies displayed, but lives on through the memories shared, the generations inspired, and the unwavering passion of its supporters. On this 125th anniversary, the Rossoneri family celebrated not only history but the continued promise of greatness within the iconic colors of red and black.
