The festive season took on a magical twist for Vinnie Essex, a nine-year-old passionate AC Milan supporter from West London, whose Christmas wish came true in spectacular fashion. What began as a heartwarming family gift turned into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, thanks to the Rossoneri club's dedication to its fans.
On Christmas morning, a video of Vinnie unwrapping a surprise trip to Milan to watch his favorite team face AS Roma on 29 December quickly went viral on social media, capturing the attention of the Club. Moved by the excitement and joy of the moment, the club decided to elevate the Essex family’s visit with an exclusive holiday experience designed to create memories they would never forget.
Upon their arrival at San Siro, Vinnie and his family were welcomed into a special pre-match program that brought them closer to the action than they could have ever imagined. The experience began with an exclusive tour of the AC Milan locker room, offering a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the team’s preparations. They then took their place pitchside to watch the players warm up – a premium opportunity usually offered exclusively as part of the Club 1899’s Front Row Experience.
During the pre-match experience, Vinnie and his family had the opportunity to meet Zlatan Ibrahimović and CEO Giorgio Furlani, who presented him with a special 125th Anniversary jersey - a unique keepsake to celebrate this extraordinary occasion. Adding to the magic of the moment, Vinnie also met his favorite player, Rafael Leão, who recognized him from his viral video and made the experience even more special with a personal greeting.
This heartwarming story reflects AC Milan’s deep commitment to its fans and its mission to create meaningful connections that go beyond the game. As the Club just celebrated its 125th Anniversary, the experience exemplifies AC Milan’s ability to unite generations of supporters through passion, tradition, and unforgettable moments.
