Italy’s rich footballing heritage boasts numerous European triumphs, but it’s been over a decade since an Italian club lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy. The last club to achieve this feat was Inter Milan in the 2009–10 season, marking a historic campaign under the leadership of manager José Mourinho.
The final, held on May 22, 2010 at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, saw Inter defeat Bayern Munich 2–0. The star of the night was Argentine striker Diego Milito, who scored both goals (35’ and 70’) to secure Inter’s third European Cup title and complete a remarkable continental treble — Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Champions League — a rare and prestigious accomplishment in world football.
This victory not only etched Mourinho’s name in club folklore but also ended a 45-year wait for European glory since Inter’s previous triumphs in 1964 and 1965. It was also a defining moment for Italian football, showcasing tactical discipline, defensive organization, and clinical attacking — hallmarks of the Serie A’s most successful eras.
Since then, Italian clubs have come close but fallen short. Juventus reached the final twice in 2015 and 2017 but were defeated by Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively. Inter Milan also returned to the final in 2023, narrowly losing 1–0 to Manchester City.
While Serie A continues to produce talented players and competitive teams, the elusive Champions League title remains out of reach. As Italian clubs look to rebuild and reinvest, fans across the country hope that another moment of European glory is not too far on the horizon.
Until then, Inter Milan’s 2010 triumph remains the shining beacon of modern Italian success on Europe’s biggest stage.
