AC Milan is in mourning following the death of Franco Baresi, the club’s legendary defender and captain during the 1980s and 1990s. Baresi passed away at 66, the club confirmed on Friday.
Baresi, who wore the iconic number 6 jersey, led AC Milan to three European Cup titles and six Serie A championships. He was also a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982 and a finalist in 1994, cementing his reputation as one of football’s greatest sweepers.
In a statement on social media, AC Milan described Baresi’s legacy as integral to the club’s identity, highlighting his integrity and leadership. The club also recalled his recent public appearance at the Milan Winter Olympics opening ceremony, an event he helped make memorable.
Born in Lombardy in 1960, Baresi joined AC Milan’s youth ranks in 1974 and quickly rose to the first team by 1978. He became captain at just 22 and formed a formidable defensive line alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti, and Alessandro Costacurta. His 719 appearances for Milan remain among the highest in the club’s history.
Following his retirement in 1997, Baresi stayed connected to Milan, serving in various roles including honorary vice-president from 2020. He briefly worked as technical director at Fulham but returned to Milan, underscoring his lifelong bond with the club.
Beyond football, Baresi was involved with the Milan Foundation, engaging in charitable work across Kenya, Morocco, and Lebanon, where he found meaningful experiences beyond the pitch.
AC Milan and the football community remember Franco Baresi as a symbol of excellence and dedication. Fellow legend Paolo Maldini reflected on the loss, expressing the challenge of moving forward without their iconic captain.
