Dejan Savicevic Relives Iconic Milan Derby Memories and Rivalry

Former AC Milan star Dejan Savicevic recently shared his vivid memories of the iconic Milan derby. The Montenegrin legend, nicknamed ‘Il Genio’, played for the Rossoneri between 1992 and 1998. His recollections offer a unique glimpse into one of football’s fiercest rivalries during its golden era. The derby’s intense atmosphere and high stakes remain unforgettable for the Champions League winner.

Savicevic’s time at Milan coincided with a period of immense success for the club. He was part of a squad that won three Serie A titles and dominated Europe. Yet, the matches against Inter Milan held a special, nerve-wracking significance. His personal derby journey was a mix of sublime moments and frustrating setbacks.

A Foreigner’s Challenge in a Stacked Squad

Savicevic faced an immediate hurdle in Italy. Serie A rules then limited teams to just three foreign players per match. Competing for a spot with icons like Marco van Basten and Ruud Gullit was tough. He admitted to La Gazzetta dello Sport that this made his derby appearances fewer than he would have liked.

In total, he featured in seven Milan derbies, scoring two goals. His debut season was a major adjustment, with only ten league appearances. His first impactful moment came in the Coppa Italia, not the league, showcasing his lethal talent from distance. Patience was a necessary virtue in a squad of all-time greats.

Defining Highs and a Painful Low

Savicevic’s best derby memory is clear. It was the 1993-94 season, which ended with Milan winning the Scudetto and the Champions League. The derby win that season was a key part of that triumphant campaign. He humorously noted a deflected shot from that game would be a goal today with VAR assistance.

Conversely, his worst memory is also stark. In a 1998 Coppa Italia tie, Milan won the first leg 5-0. The return leg, however, ended his season. A late challenge from Inter’s Giuseppe Bergomi caused a serious knee injury. Savicevic was sidelined for a year, which ultimately marked his painful farewell to the club.

He describes the derby’s unique pressure as palpable and constant. The preparation and tension were entirely different from any other fixture. According to his analysis, this fundamental nature of the clash has not changed despite the decades.

The Modern Derby Through a Legend’s Eyes

Watching today, Savicevic sees a strong Inter side that scores with ease. However, he cautions against outright calling them favorites in the upcoming clash. He believes the derby’s unpredictable nature always leaves the result in doubt. The spectacle, he asserts, is always guaranteed.

For AC Milan, he points to inconsistencies and missed chances this season. He praised the one-on-one ability of Rafael Leao and noted the importance of Christian Pulisic. His eye for talent remains sharp, as he mentioned interest in watching new players like Inter’s Sebastiano Esposito.

Savicevic will watch the next chapter from his home in Podgorica. He remains a keen observer, curious about veteran Luka Modric and young talent Luka Sucic. His final thought echoes the wisdom of experience: titles are decided in the spring, considering all competitions.

The Milan derby memories of Dejan Savicevic bridge the past and present. They highlight a rivalry where legacy is built on moments of genius and endured through heartbreak. His stories confirm the derby’s eternal status as a footballing institution.

A quick knowledge drop for you

How many Milan derbies did Dejan Savicevic play in?

Dejan Savicevic played in a total of seven Milan derbies during his six-year stint with AC Milan. The old foreign player rules often limited his appearances. He managed to score two goals in those fixtures.

What was Savicevic’s best memory of the derby?

His best memory is from the 1993-94 season, a year Milan won both Serie A and the Champions League. The derby victory that season was a key part of that historic campaign. He considers it a “splendid season” personally and for the team.

What was his worst derby-related experience?

His worst experience was a severe knee injury suffered in a 1998 Coppa Italia derby. The injury came from a foul by Inter’s Giuseppe Bergomi in a dead-rubber second leg. It ended his season and effectively his Milan career, sidelining him for a year.

Who does Savicevic think is favorite for the next derby?

He acknowledges that Inter Milan are currently a very strong side. However, he refuses to label them clear favorites due to the derby’s inherent unpredictability. He believes anything can happen when the two teams meet.

What does he think of the current AC Milan team?

Savicevic notes that Milan has struggled with consistency and wasting chances. He highlights Rafael Leao’s dribbling ability as a key asset for the team. He also pointed out that Christian Pulisic’s presence has been important for their attack.