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AC Milan's 2005 team considered among best to never win Champions League

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 8, 2026, 7:00 AM

Last updated Nov 8, 2026

AC Milan's 2005 team considered among best to never win Champions League

Summary

AC Milan's squad from 2005 is under discussion as one of football's strongest teams despite not winning the Champions League that year. The Rossoneri, featuring stars like Paolo Maldini, Kaka, and Hernan Crespo, faced a stunning defeat against Liverpool in the final, a match famously dubbed 'The Miracle of Istanbul.' The team displayed exceptional talent, having dominated Serie A prior to the final. They clinched the league title that season but were unable to navigate through the latter stages of the Champions League, leaving a legacy marked by unfulfilled potential. Analysts note the contrast between their 2005 and 2007 Champions League squads, with many believing the 2005 team was superior.

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Status Watch

•AC Milan lost to Liverpool in the 2005 Champions League final.
•The team featured legends like Paolo Maldini, Kaka, and Hernan Crespo.
•Milan dominated Serie A but failed to win any competitions in May 2005.
•Analysts argue the 2005 squad was stronger than the 2007 champions.
•Milan's legacy is impacted by their dramatic loss in Istanbul.

Latest Updates

7:00 AMYahoo Sports — The greatest team to never to win the Champions League? Paolo Maldini, Hernan Crespo, Kaka and AC Milan's super side of 2005

What they're saying

"
Carlo Ancelotti's Rossoneri may have ultimately gained revenge over Liverpool for 'The Miracle of Istanbul', but the team beaten in Turkey was even stronger than the side that triumphed in Athens in 2007
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Liverpool Juventus AC Milan Champions League Soccer