Milan mourns a legend as Franco Baresi’s legacy endures in football

The football world said farewell on Friday to Franco Baresi, the AC Milan legend and Italy national team icon, after learning of his death at age 66. The club announced his passing, recalling his 20‑year career, 719 official matches and his status as a cornerstone of Milan’s DNA.

El club de Milano comunicó el deceso del ex defensor, describiéndolo como uno de los íconos indiscutibles de la época dorada del fútbol italiano en los años 80 y 90. En su publicación oficial escribió: “La historia del Milan está de luto por el fallecimiento de Franco Baresi. Su ejemplo y su profundidad serán, para siempre, al igual que su camiseta con el número 6, parte integrante y fundamental del ADN y de la trayectoria de todo el club.” El Mundo del fútbol lamentó la pérdida, recordando su influencia en generaciones.

Born in Travagliato in May 1960, Baresi devoted his entire 20‑year professional career to AC Milan, debuting in Serie A on 23 April 1978 at 17 years and 11 months. He amassed 719 official appearances, a tally only eclipsed by Paolo Maldini, and captained the side for 15 seasons.

During his tenure he helped Milan win six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Supercups, three European Supercups and two Intercontinental Cups. He retired from playing in 1997, leaving a record of leadership and defensive mastery.

Italy mourns Milan legend Franco Baresi after serious illness

Internationally, Baresi earned 82 caps for Italia, featuring in three World Cups. He was part of the squad that lifted the 1982 World Cup in Spain, finished third in 1990 on home soil, and was runner‑up in 1994, missing a penalty in the final shoot‑out.

His health had been fragile since August 2025, when a routine check revealed a lung nodule that was surgically removed. He continued treatment but never fully recovered, and his last notable public appearance came in February at the Milan‑Cortina Winter Olympics torch ceremony alongside Giuseppe Bergomi.

Milan mourns Baresi as tributes pour in ahead of August funeral

Since 2020 Baresi served as honorary vice‑president of AC Milan, a role that underscored his lasting bond with the club. The organization repeatedly praised his example as an inspiration for young footballers and a permanent part of the club’s DNA.

Inter Milan also paid tribute, calling him a protagonist of the great Milan‑Inter duels and a figure who shaped the rivalry’s history. The contrasting emotions of mourning and celebration highlight how Baresi’s death marks the close of an era while his legacy continues to shape Milan’s identity.