September 29 is a special date for the Milan world. On the day Silvio Berlusconi's birthday is celebrated, the red-and-black club also celebrates another legend of its history: Andriy Shevchenko.

The former Ukrainian striker turns 50 and Milan wanted to dedicate a message to him on its social channels, recalling the impact he had on the club's history. “One of the greatest strikers of all time. To you, Sheva!”, the club on via Aldo Rossi wrote on Instagram.

Arriving at Milan in 1999, Shevchenko quickly became one of the symbols of the red-and-black golden era. Wearing the Devil's shirt he scored 175 goals in 322 appearances, winning numerous trophies including a Serie A title, a Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup, a Coppa Italia and an Italian Super Cup.

The most iconic moment of his Milan career remains the decisive penalty in the 2003 Champions League final against Juventus, when in Manchester he gave Milan the European triumph.

Shevchenko, a still strong bond with Milan

The relationship between Shevchenko and the red-and-black club has remained special even after his retirement from playing. The Ukrainian, now president of his country's football federation, continues to be remembered by fans as one of the most complete centre‑forwards in Milan's history.

The Ballon d’Or he won in 2004 represented the individual recognition of an extraordinary career, built through goals, speed and great composure in front of goal.

On the day of his fiftieth birthday, Milan therefore wanted to celebrate a champion who left an indelible mark on the red-and-black memory.