Former Milan Coach Arrigo Sacchi praises Silvio Berlusconi for giving calcio its 'Renaissance', whilst advising the new Chinese owners.
The 70-year-old led the Rossoneri from 1987 to 1991, modernising their tactical vision and helping establish their philosophy centred on beautiful football.
“I truly, truly struggle to think of Milan without Berlusconi and [Adriano] Galliani,” Sacchi told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “Together they did something that will remain in the history of Italian and global football.
Former Milan Coach Arrigo Sacchi praises Silvio Berlusconi for giving calcio its 'Renaissance', whilst advising the new Chinese owners.
The 70-year-old led the Rossoneri from 1987 to 1991, modernising their tactical vision and helping establish their philosophy centred on beautiful football.
“I truly, truly struggle to think of Milan without Berlusconi and [Adriano] Galliani,” Sacchi told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “Together they did something that will remain in the history of Italian and global football.
“Silvio was a revolutionary, he changed habits and ideas about football. He had the courage to take dangerous decisions and believe in his dreams, which he realised. I'd say that with him, we saw the Renaissance of calcio.
“I think his personal health was decisive in his choice to sell the club, so I can't help but agree, because it matters more than anything else. He did the right thing, but it's such a shame not to see him alongside Galliani.
“Together, they've been the best directors in the history of world football. I used to give Galliani my list of preferences, and he always came back with the top name.”
Sacchi was also asked what advice he'd give to the new Chinese owners.
“Milan need to find their greatness again. They need to be filled with ambition, pride and passion, the way that we did in our time.
“They must be very careful in choosing the right men. Let me highlight the term 'men', not just footballers. They have to choose carefully. The foundation is having players who feel love for their job and approach it professionally. That's the pursuit of excellence.
“When we had the opportunity to sign [Carlo] Ancelotti everybody, even Berlusconi, said that he was going to be a disappointment because his knees were broken. I wanted him anyway, he had the right attitude and behaviour.
“We didn't want the ones who didn't behave in the right away. Men first, footballers second.
“As for the Coach, they need a great strategist, one who can provide the game and help the players improve. I like [Vincenzo] Montella a lot and I hope he can be successful.
“Also, the men must be functional to his idea of football. In this sport you win by being the protagonists, not by closing yourself up in your half of the pitch and playing on the counter.
“It's necessary to play with and for the team, generously and with no presumption. You have to give everything for Milan, even your sporting life.
“I'd tell this to the Chinese: they must restore the pride, ambition and joy of being Milan. If you have these values, you can fill up San Siro. We went from 30.000 to 60.000 people who bought a season ticket.”