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Unexpected hero: AC Milan grateful to 19-year-old defender Davide Bartesaghi who stepped up this season

15. December 2025
Davide Bartesaghi (foto: Getty Images)
Teenage defender Davide Bartesaghi scored his first two senior goals for AC Milan, emerging as a bright spot in a 2–2 draw with Sassuolo at San Siro.

AC Milan expected more at San Siro, but a 2–2 draw with Sassuolo left the Rossoneri frustrated and opened the door for Napoli to move top with a win. Still, there was a clear positive on the night — and it came from an unexpected source.

Davide Bartesaghi, the 19-year-old left-back, will remember this match fondly. The tall, left-footed defender scored his first two goals for Milan’s senior side, rescuing a point and announcing himself on the big stage.

Sassuolo took the lead through Ismaël Koné, before Bartesaghi turned the game around with a quick-fire brace that briefly put Milan in front. The visitors responded after the break, with Armand Laurienté equalising to secure the final 2–2 scoreline.

For Milan, the result ended a run of three consecutive league wins — and while they have suffered only one defeat so far, the draw felt like a missed opportunity.

A rapid rise into the first team

Bartesaghi broke into Milan’s senior squad last season, making 15 appearances. The current campaign marked his 13th outing, underlining the trust placed in him by the coaching staff.

The club clearly see him as part of their future. Earlier this year, Bartesaghi extended his contract until 2030, a strong signal of long-term faith. In October, he also earned a call-up to Italy’s U21 national team.

Built for modern football

Originally developed at Atalanta before joining Milan’s academy in 2012, Bartesaghi has progressed steadily through the youth ranks. Though a defender by trade, he is attack-minded and even played as a winger earlier in his development.

Standing 193 cm tall, he combines physical presence with forward intent — attributes increasingly valued in modern full-backs.

Milan now turn their attention to a league clash with Como, followed by a Supercoppa Italiana meeting with Antonio Conte’s Napoli. Whatever happens next, Bartesaghi’s breakthrough night has already given the Rossoneri something to build on.

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