Silvio Berlusconi died earlier in the day at age 86 after being hospitalized on the weekend, and tributes are pouring in for the ex-Milan and Monza patron. Having been at the helm of the Rossoneri for a duration of 31 years, Berlusconi oversaw the club’s most successful years, before leading Monza to a historic top-flight promotion for the first-time ever in 2021/22.
?️ The story of an era ❤️?
?️ Berlusconi e il Milan, una storia meravigliosa ❤️?
#SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/lU8XGge7nE
— AC Milan (@acmilan) June 12, 2023
Former Milan manager Fabio Capello won four Scudetti, three Supercoppa Italiana, and one UEFA Champions League and Super Cup each under the patron.
“Silvio Berlusconi was a unique character, with a strength and charisma that I have seen in few other people. He had managerial skills and the ability to find the right men to achieve goals; he immediately understood who was important and who had the right ideas. He knew how to choose. He did incredible things.”
Italy midfield icon Andrea Pirlo sent his heartfelt farewell to Berlusconi.
“A great man, a great president. I had the honor and good fortune to have lived many moments together. Your precious teachings will always remain with me. Thanks Silvio, you will be missed, RIP.”
Paolo Maldini, who was recently dismissed from his directorial role at Milan, started his career under the patronage of Berlusconi.
“A genius, visionary and dreamer has left us, but above all a friend who changed the history of our Italy. Thank you for everything President, you made all of us Milan fans live a dream that lasted more than 30 years, no one will ever be like you.”
Brazilian defender Serginho also gave his condolences.
“Today the day started badly with the sad news of the loss of our great president Berlusconi. I thank God for having had the opportunity to meet a legend, of a unique intelligence.Thank you very much, and always Forza Milan.”
Rossoneri legend Franco Baresi captained Milan during Berlusconi’s peak era in the latter half of the 1980’s.
“An extraordinary president and an extraordinary person, he always knew how to find the right words on every occasion. He was like a father and I already miss him so much. He was a visionary in football, he created a fantastic team and made my childhood dreams come true. I owe him a lot.”
Another iconic Milan defender in Alessandro Nesta couldn’t keep away from expressing his gratitude.
“There are not enough words to testify esteem and gratitude. Rest in peace, immense President.”
La tristezza di oggi, non cancella i momenti felici passati insieme. Rimane una riconoscenza infinita al presidente, ma soprattutto ad un uomo ironico, leale, intelligente, sincero, fondamentale nella mia avventura da calciatore prima, e da allenatore poi. Grazie Presidente. pic.twitter.com/aRLSxxzUVz
— Carlo Ancelotti (@MrAncelotti) June 12, 2023
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