Milan: AC Milan and Italy legend Franco Baresi has died at the age of 66, bringing to an end the life of one of football's greatest defenders. The Rossoneri confirmed the passing of their iconic former captain on Thursday, paying tribute to a player whose legacy spans two decades of extraordinary service to the club.
According to Ghana Web, Milan expressed their sorrow following Baresi's passing, highlighting his lasting impact on the club. "Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi. His example and integrity will be forever etched into the club's DNA, just as his iconic number six shirt is," the club said in a statement.
Baresi's professional career was entirely dedicated to AC Milan after he made his debut in 1977. He went on to make 719 appearances over 20 seasons before retiring in 1997. Celebrated as one of the finest defenders in football history, he captained Milan for 15 seasons, leading the club to win six Serie A titles, three European Cups and UEFA Champions League trophies, four Supercoppa Italiana titles, two UEFA Super Cups, and two Intercontinental Cups.
His partnership with Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta, and Mauro Tassotti remains one of the most celebrated defensive units in European football.
On the international front, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy and was part of the squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup. He captained the Azzurri to the 1994 World Cup final, delivering a remarkable performance against Brazil despite recovering from a serious knee injury. Although Italy lost on penalties, Baresi's display remains a defining moment of his international career.
Post-retirement, Baresi maintained a strong connection with AC Milan, being appointed honorary vice-president in 2020. The club honored his significant contributions by retiring his famous number six shirt.
Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung nodule, and his final public appearance was at San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in February.
AC Milan further paid tribute to Baresi, describing him as the embodiment of the club's identity. "Announcing the loss of someone who embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan is incredibly difficult. In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he'll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever."