Franco Baresi, the legendary AC Milan and Italy centre‑back, has died at the age of 66.
Baresi spent his entire 20‑year senior career with Milan, wearing the captain’s armband for 15 of those years and amassing 719 appearances, a tally that places him second only to teammate Paolo Maldini in the club’s all‑time records.
During that spell he helped the Rossoneri capture six Serie A titles and three European Cups/Champions Leagues, establishing himself as one of the greatest defenders the game has ever known.
Tributes pour in
AC Milan released a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of a player whose loyalty and leadership defined a generation, while Maldini, who succeeded Baresi as captain, paid tribute to his former mentor, highlighting the profound impact Baresi had on his own career.
Baresi, who served as Milan’s honorary vice‑president from 2020, had undergone surgery last year to remove a pulmonary nodule and was under the care of a cancer specialist. He made a public appearance in February as a torchbearer for the Winter Olympic Games in Milan, underscoring his enduring connection to the city.
Internationally, he was a key member of Italy’s 1982 World Cup‑winning squad and later captained the national team back to a final twelve years later, only to see Brazil triumph in that decisive match.
His No. 6 shirt has been retired, and colleagues, fans, and rivals alike remember him for his loyalty, leadership, and the indelible imprint he left on the sport.