Experience is often the key to success in football, and no team embodied this better than AC Milan’s 2006/07 UEFA Champions League-winning side. With an average age of over 31 years, this Milan squad proved that wisdom, tactical discipline, and composure can triumph over youthful energy on the biggest stage. Led by Carlo Ancelotti, Milan defeated Liverpool 2-1 in the final, avenging their heartbreaking loss in Istanbul two years prior.
Let’s take a closer look at the oldest starting XI to win the UEFA Champions League and the experience that guided them to glory.
AC Milan’s Starting XI in the 2007 UCL Final
Goalkeeper: Dida (33 years old)
A crucial part of Milan’s success, Dida was a reliable presence between the posts. His reflexes and composure under pressure helped Milan control the game against Liverpool.
Right-Back: Massimo Oddo (30 years old)
Having joined Milan earlier that season, Oddo provided defensive stability and attacking support down the right flank. His experience was vital in keeping Liverpool’s wingers at bay.
Centre-Back: Alessandro Nesta (31 years old)
One of the greatest defenders of his generation, Nesta combined intelligence, timing, and composure to neutralize Liverpool’s attacking threats. His partnership with Maldini was built on years of experience.
Centre-Back: Paolo Maldini (38 years old)
A true Milan legend, Maldini captained the side at 38 years old. His leadership, tactical awareness, and ability to read the game ensured Milan remained solid at the back. His experience was invaluable in guiding the team to victory.
Left-Back: Marek Jankulovski (30 years old)
A versatile and hardworking defender, Jankulovski balanced defensive duties with his ability to push forward and support the attack.
Defensive Midfield: Gennaro Gattuso (29 years old)
The heartbeat of Milan’s midfield, Gattuso provided relentless energy and defensive steel. His aggressive tackling and leadership helped Milan control the tempo of the game.
Central Midfield: Andrea Pirlo (28 years old)
A genius with the ball, Pirlo dictated play with his vision and passing. His perfectly delivered free-kick led to Milan’s opening goal, showing his technical mastery.
Central Midfield: Massimo Ambrosini (29 years old)
A tireless midfielder, Ambrosini provided defensive cover and broke up Liverpool’s attacks. His work rate and experience added balance to Milan’s midfield.
Midfield: Clarence Seedorf (31 years old)
A four-time UCL winner, Seedorf provided creativity, intelligence, and composure in the attacking third. His leadership and experience were crucial in Milan’s Champions League run.
Attacking Midfield: Kaká (25 years old)
The youngest player in the lineup, Kaká was at the peak of his powers. The 2007 Ballon d’Or winner was Milan’s creative spark, orchestrating attacks and setting up both of Filippo Inzaghi’s goals in the final.
Striker: Filippo Inzaghi (33 years old)
A master of positioning and movement, Inzaghi delivered on the biggest stage, scoring both goals in the final. His instincts and experience made him the perfect striker for Milan’s system.
A Victory Built on Experience
AC Milan’s average age of 31 years and 34 days made them the oldest starting XI to win the UEFA Champions League. Their experience played a key role in the 2-1 victory over Liverpool, with Milan controlling the game’s tempo and capitalizing on key moments.
This triumph wasn’t just about age—it was about tactical brilliance, leadership, and resilience. Milan’s veteran squad proved that experience is invaluable on the biggest stage, securing their seventh European Cup and cementing their place in football history.
Final Thought
AC Milan’s 2007 Champions League-winning team remains a testament to the power of experience, teamwork, and tactical intelligence.