Filippo Galli started as a member of the A. C. Milan youth team before progressing to the senior squad, where he played for 13 seasons between 1983-96, following a brief spell at Pescara in 1982/83. During his time at Milan, Galli won many domestic and European titles. He won five Serie A titles between 1988-96, four Italian Super Cups between 1988-94; the Champions’ League in 1989, 1990 and 1994; the UEFA Super Cup in 1989, 1990 and 1994; and the Intercontinental Cup in 1989 and 1990.

Under coaches like Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello, Milano created a formidable defensive line-up consisting of the three Olympians Galli, Franco Baresi and Mauro Tassotti. Despite playing for the Italian U-21 team seven times 1984-87, and for the Olympic team in 1984, Galli never won a full international cap. Following spells at Reggiana, Brescia, Watford in England, and Pro Sesto, he retired from playing at the age of 41 in 2004, with 520 senior club appearances to his credit. He then embarked on a coaching career with the Milan youth team.