Sebastiano Rossi (born 20 July 1964) is an Italian former professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He is best known for his twelve‑year tenure with AC Milan, where he contributed to multiple domestic and European titles and holds the club record for the most clean sheets (180).
Early life and career
Rossi was born in Venice, Italy. He began his senior career with Venezia (1982–1985) before moving to lower‑division clubs, including Sampdoria (loan), Piacenza, and Avellino, where he established himself as a reliable goalkeeper.
AC Milan (1990–2002)
In 1990, Rossi joined AC Milan, initially as a backup to Giovanni Galli. He became the first‑choice keeper in the 1994–95 season under manager Fabio Capello. During his time at Milan, Rossi won:
- Serie A titles: 1991–92, 1992–93, 1993–94, 1995–96, 1998–99, 2001–02
- UEFA Champions League: 1993–94, 1994–95, 2002–03 (squad member)
- Supercoppa Italiana: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1999, 2002
- UEFA Super Cup: 1990, 1994, 2003 (squad member)
- Intercontinental Cup: 1990, 1994
He set a Serie A record for the longest run without conceding a goal (953 minutes) during the 1993–94 season, a record later surpassed in 2016. His reputation was built on consistency, positional sense, and composure.
Later career and retirement
After leaving Milan in 2002, Rossi signed with Perugia for one season before retiring from professional football in 2003. Post‑retirement, he has worked as a goalkeeping coach and pundit, primarily within Italian media.
Playing style
Rossi was noted for his strong shot‑stopping ability, command of the penalty area, and proficiency in organizing the defence. While not particularly celebrated for sweeping or ball‑playing attributes, his reliability made him a stalwart presence between the posts.
Personal life
Rossi is married and has children. He maintains a low public profile, occasionally appearing at AC Milan alumni events and in media discussions concerning Italian football history.
