The venue that will stage one of the 2022-23 Champions League semi finals carries a name tied to a beloved Italian football icon. In Milan, the city known as the capital of Lombardy, the arena is recognized by two different names depending on the home team. Inter Milan and AC Milan share the same stage, a ground founded in 1926, where the atmosphere is steeped in history and the drama of Europe’s premier club competition continues to unfold.
Who was Giuseppe Meazza and why does the stadium bear his name
Since 1980 the stadium has officially carried the name Giuseppe Meazza following the death of the celebrated player and an agreement between the two clubs. Among Inter supporters the landmark is commonly called Meazza, while many Milan fans prefer the original neighborhood-inspired designation and the older name San Siro. The dual identity mirrors the unique rivalry between the two clubs and their shared facility.
Giuseppe Meazza stands among the early greats of Italian football. A two-time World Cup winner with Italy in 1934 and 1938, Meazza was born in Milan and wore the shirt for both Inter and Milan during his career. His legacy is especially pronounced with Inter, where he spent more seasons, shaping the club’s history through bold play and leadership. This enduring imprint helps explain the split in naming preferences between the fan bases and why the stadium holds a special place in the memories of both sets of supporters.
Today the stadium remains a symbol of Milan’s football heritage, a place where the sport’s deep local roots meet global competition. It continues to host major matches, including some of the most anticipated Champions League clashes, and it remains a focal point for fans who remember the era when Meazza dazzled crowds with his skill and strategic mastery. The debate over which name to use adds to the arena’s character, reflecting a city that values history while embracing the excitement of contemporary football.
Source: Goal