Alessandro Costacurta, the AC Milan legend, has described San Siro as an icon that is incredibly beautiful but not functional. In a recent interview, the former defender shared his first memories of the stadium and his thoughts on its future.
Costacurta's First Visit to San Siro
Costacurta's first experience at San Siro was far from glamorous. At the age of 12, he accompanied his older brother, a Milan fan, to watch a match against Bologna. "San Siro wasn't covered back then, and suddenly this downpour started," he recalls. His father decided they had to leave after just 15 minutes. Little did he know, this would be the start of a lifelong connection with the stadium.
A Record-Breaking Career with AC Milan
Recruited into Milan's academy a year later, Costacurta went on to make 663 appearances for the first team, winning Serie A seven times and the European Cup five times. Only Paolo Maldini (902) and Franco Baresi (719) have made more appearances for the Rossoneri. Alongside Maldini, Baresi, and Mauro Tassotti, Costacurta formed what many consider the greatest back four in football history.
San Siro: An Iconic but Outdated Stadium
While San Siro holds a special place in Costacurta's heart, he acknowledges its limitations. "It's incredibly beautiful but it's not functional," he says. The stadium, opened in 1926, lacks modern amenities and has been the subject of renovation debates. Despite its charm, the lack of covered seating and outdated facilities pose challenges for spectators and players alike.
Comparison of San Siro with Modern Stadiums
| Feature | San Siro | Modern Stadium (e.g., Tottenham Hotspur Stadium) |
|---|---|---|
| Year Opened | 1926 | 2019 |
| Capacity | 75,923 | 62,850 |
| Covered Seating | Partial | Full |
| Modern Amenities | Limited | Extensive |
| Accessibility | Basic | Advanced |
Key Takeaways
- Costacurta's first visit to San Siro was cut short by rain due to lack of cover.
- He made 663 appearances for AC Milan, winning numerous trophies.
- He considers San Siro beautiful but not functional for modern needs.
- The stadium's future is uncertain, with debates over renovation or replacement.
FAQ
What did Alessandro Costacurta say about San Siro?
Costacurta described San Siro as an icon that is incredibly beautiful but not functional, highlighting its lack of modern amenities.

How many appearances did Costacurta make for AC Milan?
He made 663 appearances for AC Milan, scoring 3 goals.
Why is San Siro considered not functional?
San Siro lacks covered seating, modern amenities, and accessibility features compared to newer stadiums.
