Diego Milito, nicknamed El Principe for his physical resemblance to Enzo Francescoli, built a career as a prolific striker across Argentina, Spain, and Italy. Between 1999 and 2016, he became a central figure in European football, most notably during a historic treble-winning campaign with Inter Milan that solidified his reputation as a clinical goalscorer in high-stakes matches.
Early Career and Argentine Roots
Born in Bernal on 12 June 1979, Milito began his professional career with Racing Club in 1999. During his initial tenure, he secured the 2001 Apertura tournament title. His time in Argentina was marked by a unique personal rivalry, as he frequently competed against his younger brother, Gabriel, who played for the cross-town rival Independiente.
European Development at Genoa and Zaragoza
Milito transferred to the Italian side Genoa in 2003, where he scored 33 goals in 59 matches. Following Genoa's relegation to Serie C1 due to match-fixing sanctions in 2005, he moved to the Spanish club Real Zaragoza. Over three seasons in La Liga, he amassed 61 goals, including a notable four-goal performance against Real Madrid in the 2006 Copa del Rey. He eventually served as the club's captain before returning to Genoa in 2008, where he tallied 24 goals in 31 league appearances.
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In 2009, Milito joined Inter Milan for a fee of €28 million. He played a decisive role in the 2009–10 season, scoring 30 goals across all competitions. His performance was instrumental in securing the Coppa Italia, the Serie A Scudetto, and the UEFA Champions League title, where he netted two goals in the final match.
International Representation
Throughout his professional career, Milito represented the Argentina national team on 25 occasions. He contributed 4 goals to his national side while participating in two separate Copa América tournaments and the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Retirement
After concluding his time with Inter Milan, Milito returned to his original club, Racing Club, in 2014. He remained with the Argentine side for two seasons before announcing his retirement from professional association football in 2016.
Fast facts
- Born: 12 June 1979, Bernal
- Nickname: El Principe
- Professional debut: 1999
- Total caps for Argentina: 25
- Final professional club: Racing Club
- Retirement year: 2016
- Language: Spanish
Questions readers ask
Why was he nicknamed El Principe?
He was called The Prince due to his physical resemblance to former Uruguayan footballer Enzo Francescoli.
What major trophies did he win with Inter Milan in 2010?
He helped the team win the Coppa Italia, the Serie A Scudetto, and the UEFA Champions League.
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