Massimo Ambrosini: The Hard Worker

Massimo Ambrosini is known as a hardworking player, who took time to break into the AC Milan ranks. He is well known for his aerial ability and tackling. He is also the vice-captain in AC Milan.

Ambrosini began his career with Serie B side Cesena, and then moved to Milan who won the race to sign him the following year, and despite facing tough competition to break into the all-star Milan side, Ambrosini was given a handful of games as the team romped to the Serie A championship. Ambrosini then was sent on loan to Vicenza, where he was a key member of the team that successfully preserved their Serie A status. Recalled to the San Siro, Ambrosini at last made a first-team place his own as Milan won back the Serie A championship in 1999. A regular the following term, he then saw his chances limited by a troublesome knee injury before returning to full fitness to help Milan win the Coppa Italia and UEFA Champions League.

In 2004–05, he struggled to break into Milan first team, and only made 22 Serie A appearances, scoring one goal. However, it is his late goal that took Milan to the UEFA Champions League final. With Milan losing 2–0, a scoreline which would have sent the match to extra time as Milan defeated PSV with the same score in the San Siro, Ambrosini scored a header in second half injury time to bring the score to 2–1 and give Milan the 3–2 aggregate lead.

Ambrosini has been Milan captain in the absence of Paolo Maldini through injury throughout the 2007-08 season. Ambrosini scored four goals, the most number of goals he has ever scored for a club in a single season.

Ambrosini's hard work, aerial prowess, and his undying dedication to the team has made him a beloved figure within the ultras who consistently sing his name during home matches.

Source: Wikipedia