The 1990s were a golden era for football in Milan. AC Milan and Inter Milan were home to some of the greatest players the game has ever seen, dominating Serie A and Europe with style, steel, and superstar quality. Combining the best of both clubs from that decade produces an extraordinary XI filled with icons, Ballon d’Or winners, and players who defined their positions.
This team celebrates the power and elegance of Milanese football in the 1990s.
Goalkeeper: Gianluca Pagliuca
One of the finest Italian goalkeepers of the era, Pagliuca was a commanding presence between the posts. Calm, consistent, and reliable, he played a key role for Inter during a highly competitive decade in Serie A.
Full Back: Javier Zanetti
Zanetti’s Inter legacy began in the mid 90s and quickly grew into something legendary. His versatility, discipline, and relentless engine made him one of the most dependable full backs of his generation.
Centre Back: Alessandro Costacurta
A master of positioning and tactical intelligence, Costacurta was a cornerstone of AC Milan’s legendary defence. His ability to read the game made him the perfect partner for more aggressive defenders.
Centre Back: Franco Baresi
The heartbeat of Milan’s defensive dominance. Baresi was the ultimate leader, combining anticipation, composure, and authority. His influence defined an era of defensive excellence.
Left Back: Paolo Maldini
Elegance, longevity, and perfection. Maldini’s performances throughout the 90s cemented his status as one of the greatest defenders of all time. Equally brilliant defensively and going forward, he set the standard for the modern full back.
Defensive Midfield: Frank Rijkaard
Powerful, intelligent, and technically gifted, Rijkaard brought balance to midfield. His ability to protect the defence while contributing in possession made him essential to Milan’s dominance at the start of the decade.
Central Midfield: Ruud Gullit
Dynamic and unstoppable, Gullit combined physicality with creativity. Whether driving forward or controlling midfield, he was a force of nature and a symbol of Milan’s global appeal.
Central Midfield: Lothar Matthäus
One of the most complete midfielders in football history. During his time at Inter, Matthäus brought leadership, goals, and tactical intelligence, winning the Ballon d’Or and leading the club to domestic success.
Attacking Midfield: Roberto Baggio
Pure artistry. Baggio’s grace, vision, and ability to decide matches made him one of the most gifted players of his generation. His presence adds creativity and imagination to this XI.
Striker: Marco van Basten
A striker of extraordinary technique and intelligence. Van Basten’s movement, finishing, and elegance made him one of the most feared forwards of the era and a defining figure of AC Milan’s success.
Striker: Ronaldo
The Phenomenon at his explosive best. Ronaldo’s time at Inter in the late 90s showcased raw pace, strength, and skill rarely seen before or since. Even injuries could not diminish his impact or brilliance.
The Ultimate Milan 90s Blend
This combined XI reflects the perfect balance between AC Milan’s defensive mastery and Inter Milan’s explosive power. It is a team built on intelligence, leadership, and individual genius, representing one of the richest periods in football history.
Few cities can claim to have hosted such an extraordinary collection of talent in a single decade. Milan in the 1990s was football royalty, and this XI is a tribute to that unforgettable era.