One of the football world’s most legendary central defenders, Franco Baresi of AC Milan and the Italian national team, passed away at the age of 66. A World Cup-winning player who spent all of his club career with AC Milan, Franco Baresi is regarded as a living legend and role model in the field of Italian football. Tributes have been pouring out from all over the world following the announcement of his death. It should be mentioned that Baresi was operated on due to a lung nodule in 2025.
Following the news, AC Milan paid tribute to one of the club's biggest icons. In a statement on X, the club said Baresi's values and influence would remain a permanent part of Milan's identity, "The entire history of AC Milan is in mourning following the death of Franco Baresi. His example and integrity will remain forever embedded in the club's DNA, just like his iconic number 6 shirt. The condolences that AC Milan extends to the family of Franco Baresi in this difficult time are shared by every Rossonero, who feels this loss as their own."
Inside Franco Baresi's Historic Career With AC Milan And Italy
Baresi developed a remarkable career based on consistency, leadership, and superb defense. The player played 716 games for AC Milan and managed to become one of the most prominent players in the history of this club. In addition, throughout his career, Baresi was a teammate of Marco van Basten, Frank Rijkaard and Ruud Gullit when AC Milan had its greatest success.
The player also demonstrated his talent on the highest European level. In particular, from 1989 to 1995, Baresi appeared in five UEFA Champions League finals, repeating the record set by Real Madrid footballer Alfredo Di Stefano. Moreover, the player helped Italy win the FIFA World Cup in 1982, having first joined the senior team in the 1977/78 season.
Despite being tempted by many top European clubs in his heyday, Baresi stayed true to AC Milan. Rather than opting to leave for another club, he played all his football with the Rossoneri, adding to the credibility of his image as one-club legend. Upon retirement from professional football, which was exactly two decades since his debut with AC Milan, he exited the sport having earned a number of accolades and high esteem worldwide.
He also continued contributing even after retirement. To honour his contributions, the club retired his famous No. 6 jersey. He became one of the few people whose numbers have been retired by the club, a testimony to his importance to the club. He has also held such a prestigious position as vice president of AC Milan.
