Italian football is mourning the death of Franco Baresi, the AC Milan great and former Italy captain who has died at the age of 66.
Baresi is widely regarded as one of the finest defenders in football history and spent his entire professional career with AC Milan. After making his senior debut in 1977, he remained with the club for 20 seasons, making 719 appearances before retiring in 1997.
The centre-back captained AC Milan for 15 years and was a central figure during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. Across his distinguished career, he won six Serie A titles, three European Cup/UEFA Champions League trophies, four Italian Super Cups, two UEFA Super Cups and two Intercontinental Cups.
His influence at the club continued long after he stopped playing. AC Milan retired the number six shirt he had made famous following his retirement. In 2020, Baresi was appointed the club’s honorary vice-president as recognition of his exceptional contribution and enduring loyalty.
Baresi also enjoyed a distinguished international career with Italy, winning 81 caps. He was part of the squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain, although he did not play in the final.
Twelve years later, he led Italy as captain to the 1994 World Cup final in the United States. Baresi produced a memorable performance against Brazil after making a rapid return from a serious knee injury, but Italy ultimately lost the final on penalties.
Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung nodule. His final public appearance came at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics at San Siro in February this year.
AC Milan paid tribute to one of the most important players in its history, describing Baresi as the embodiment of the Rossoneri spirit.
“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.
“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.”
Baresi’s entire club career was spent in the famous red and black of AC Milan, where he became synonymous with leadership, defensive excellence and loyalty. As captain, he helped establish the standards that defined an era of unprecedented success for the club.
His reputation extended beyond his collection of major honours. Baresi was celebrated for his reading of the game, composure and authority at the heart of defence, qualities that made him an enduring symbol of AC Milan’s identity.
The former defender leaves a legacy that spans generations. He will be remembered both as one of football’s greatest defenders and as an iconic figure in the history of AC Milan and Italy.
