Italian football legend and AC Milan icon Franco Baresi has died at the age of 66, the Serie A club has announced.
In a statement posted on X, AC Milan paid tribute to the former captain, describing him as one of the greatest figures in the club’s history.
“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 6 shirt is,” the club said.
Baresi captained AC Milan during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history, leading the Rossoneri to three European Cup titles and six Serie A championships. He later served as the club’s honorary vice-president.
Widely regarded as one of football’s greatest sweepers, Baresi was celebrated for his composure, anticipation, tackling ability and leadership. Alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta, he formed one of the most formidable defensive units in European football.
AC Milan did not disclose the cause of his death. However, Baresi underwent surgery last year to remove a lung nodule and later said he was recovering.
“It will take me a little time to get all my strength back,” he said after the operation.
Born in Lombardy in May 1960, Baresi joined AC Milan’s youth academy before making his first-team debut shortly before turning 18. He became a regular starter at 18 and was appointed captain at just 22.
He retired after making 719 appearances for AC Milan, a club record later surpassed only by Paolo Maldini.
On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy, winning the FIFA World Cup and later helping the Azzurri reach another World Cup final. Despite his remarkable career, penalty shootout defeats in the 1990 World Cup semi-final and a later World Cup final denied him additional international glory.
Baresi’s death marks the end of an era for AC Milan and Italian football, with tributes expected from across the football world for one of the game’s most accomplished defenders.
