Tonight, at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu, Carlo Ancelotti will witness a nostalgic clash between his past and present as Real Madrid takes on AC Milan in the Champions League. The rivalry between these two European giants runs deep, recalling an era when Milan’s red-and-black was Real’s fiercest competition.
Back in 2007, under Ancelotti’s guidance, AC Milan won their seventh European title, narrowly trailing Real’s tally. Fast-forward 17 years, and while Real Madrid now boasts 15 titles, Milan’s count remains unchanged. Ancelotti’s 2007 Milan, with legends like Maldini, Kaka, and Inzaghi, triumphed over Liverpool, avenging their unforgettable loss in Istanbul two years earlier.
Ancelotti’s history with Milan is rich—not just as a coach, but also as a player. In 1989, he was part of the Milan team that demolished Real 5-0 in the European Cup semifinals. However, Milan’s fortunes waned over time, and even Berlusconi’s investments couldn’t restore their former glory.
Today, Milan arrives at the Bernabeu in a different light—seeking to regain relevance against a Real Madrid team that recently suffered a 4-0 El Clasico loss. Though Paulo Fonseca’s Milan sits lower in the Champions League standings, they have much to prove.
With Real ranked 12th in the group stage and Milan trailing in 25th, this match is crucial for both teams. Milan will need something extraordinary to leave the Bernabeu with pride intact, reigniting memories of the fierce rivalry between these European titans.
