Throughout its history, AC Milan has counted among its ranks some of the finest footballers ever to win the Ballon d’Or. The last to win the trophy with AC Milan was Kaka in 2007. We don't know who will win the 2026 Ballon d'Or, but according to the latest Ballon d'Or odds provided by oddschecker, it is unlikely that a Milan player will even be among the finalists. However, AC Milan's history speaks for itself, with champions of pure talent who have won the trophy and brought prestige to the Rossoneri colors. Among the many players who won the Ballon d’Or in AC Milan history, here are five of the greatest rossoneri winners, each of whom left an indelible mark on the club.
Gianni Rivera (1969):
Gianni Rivera was the first Milan player to win the Ballon d’Or, in 1969. Born and bred in Italy, Rivera was a creative midfielder whose elegance, vision, and passing made him the fulcrum of the Milan team under coach Nereo Rocco. During his time in Milan, Rivera helped lead the side to domestic and continental honours, using his technical brilliance to unlock defenses. His 1969 Ballon d’Or win marked not only personal glory, but also symbolized Milan’s return to prominence in Europe.
Ruud Gullit (1987):
In 1987, Dutch legend Ruud Gullit won the Ballon d’Or while playing for Milan, becoming a symbol of the club’s resurgence. Gullit brought strength, versatility, and leadership. He could play as a sweeper, a midfielder or forward, combining physical power with technical class. With Milan under Arrigo Sacchi, he was instrumental in their first Serie A title in nine years and later European success.
Marco van Basten (1988, 1989, 1992):
Marco van Basten’s Ballon d’Or triumphs remain among the most impressive in Milan’s history: he won it three times: 1988, 1989, and 1992, all while wearing the red and black. His pure striking talent was unmatched. In 1989, he finished ahead of two of his Milan teammates, Franco Baresi and Frank Rijkaard, giving Milan a complete rossonero podium. Van Basten’s elegant movement, clinical finishing, and flair made him the spearhead in Milan’s dominant era, contributing decisively in Serie A and in Europe.
George Weah (1995):
George Weah, the Liberian forward, achieved history by winning the Ballon d’Or in 1995 while at Milan. He was the first non-European player to receive the honour. Weah joined Milan that same year and scored early, blending raw athleticism, speed, and dribbling with a powerful goal-scoring instinct. His Ballon d’Or win came after an outstanding season and symbolized his global impact and Milan’s ambition.
Andriy Shevchenko (2004):
In 2004, Ukrainian striker Andriy Shevchenko won the Ballon d’Or as a Rossonero. He had joined Milan in 1999 and rapidly became their talisman: prolific in Serie A, decisive in the Champions League, and lethal in big matches. His pace, composure, and finishing made him one of Europe’s most feared forwards. His Ballon d’Or crowned a stellar period at Milan, where he helped secure league titles and continental success.
Luka Modric (2018):
In the summer of 2025, Luka Modrić, the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner, officially joined AC Milan. The Croatian midfield signed a one-year contract with an option to extend to 2027. Known for his vision, elegance, and leadership, Modrić brings a wealth of experience from his years at Real Madrid. His arrival reunites the Rossoneri with another Ballon d’Or winner, strengthening their pedigree.
Rafael Leão: a Rising Rossonero star and the Hope for 2026
Finally, no reflection on Milan’s golden players would be complete without Rafael Leão, the thrilling forward who has become the face of Milan’s future. His explosive pace, dribbling, and ability to create moments of magic have already turned heads. With Modrić now in the squad, Leão has a more seasoned playmaker to feed him, potentially unlocking new levels in his game. Paulo Fonseca, Leao’s former coach, said that he can win the Ballon d’Or and the same opinion is shared among many fans, who see Leão as a very real candidate for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
