Milan legend Paolo Maldini paid tribute to Silvio Berlusconi, who has died at 86 and will have a state funeral on Wednesday. ‘Nobody will ever be like you again.’
Berlusconi took the Rossoneri from the verge of bankruptcy in 1986 to becoming the most successful club in world football with 29 trophies.
After selling up, he purchased Monza in the lower divisions and took them to their first ever Serie A season.
Former Prime Minister, media mogul and constant presence in the Italian discourse for decades, Berlusconi will receive a state funeral at the Duomo Cathedral in Milan on Wednesday.
“A genius, visionary and dreamer leaves us, but above all a friend who changed the history of our Italy,” wrote Rossoneri icon Maldini on Instagram.
“Thank you for everything, President, you allowed us Milanisti to live a dream that lasted over 30 years. Nobody will ever be like you again.”
Berlusconi had spent much of the last couple of months in hospital for treatment, revealing he had been suffering from a form of leukaemia for two years.
He had reportedly gone into the San Raffaele Hospital for more tests only to pass away at 9.30am local time this morning.
Paolo the great ! Thanks for the tribute. Milan fans gutted with the events of the last few weeks.
We will forever grateful to you,Forza Berlusconi.