VIA THE ATHLETIC FOOTBALL ON X:
Franco Baresi, the legendary AC Milan captain and one of football’s greatest defenders, has died aged 66 after a career defined by loyalty, leadership and success.
Franco Baresi, one of football’s greatest defenders and a symbol of AC Milan, has died at the age of 66. The Italian club confirmed the passing of their former captain, describing his legacy as permanently connected to Milan’s identity.
According to BBC SPORT, Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Rossoneri from 1977 to 1997, making 719 appearances and becoming one of the most respected figures in the club’s history.
The legendary defender captained AC Milan for 15 seasons, leading the team through one of its most successful eras. He won six Serie A titles, three European Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, two European Super Cups and four Supercoppa Italianas.
His partnership with Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta and Mauro Tassotti formed one of the most celebrated defensive units in European football.
Baresi also enjoyed an outstanding international career with Italy, earning 81 caps and being part of the squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
He captained the national team in the 1994 World Cup final against Brazil, returning from knee surgery to deliver a remarkable performance before missing a penalty during the decisive shootout as Italy lost on penalties.
After retiring in 1997, AC Milan retired his famous number six shirt in recognition of his contribution to the club. Baresi later became the club’s honorary vice-president and remained closely linked with Milan until his death.
His final public appearance came during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics at San Siro.
Tributes poured in from across football, with former teammate Paolo Maldini, Gianluigi Buffon, Inter Milan, Italian football officials and political leaders praising Baresi’s loyalty, professionalism and influence.
Widely regarded as one of the last great one-club players, Baresi leaves behind a legacy built on leadership, defensive excellence and lifelong devotion to AC Milan.
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