Ex-Milan legend Baresi dies at 66

Franco Baresi, the legendary former captain of AC Milan and a key figure in Italian football, has died at the age of 66, the club confirmed on Friday. Baresi, who led AC Milan to three European Cup victories and six Serie A titles during his career, passed away following complications related to health issues he had been dealing with in recent years. The announcement came days after his 66th birthday and less than a year after he made a rare public appearance at the Milan Winter Olympics opening ceremony. AC Milan released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of its former captain, describing him as a symbol of the club's values and legacy. “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 wrote on social media. It emphasized that Baresi would continue to inspire the club through his enduring presence in its history. Baresi was named AC Milan’s honorary vice president in 2020, a role that recognized his lifelong dedication to the club. He had previously served as a technical director at English club Fulham for a brief period in 2025, though he returned to Milan within weeks, acknowledging that his connection to the club could never be severed. Born in Lombardy in May 1960, Baresi began his career with AC Milan’s youth academy in 1974 and made his senior debut in 1978 at the age of 18. By 22, he was already serving as the team’s captain, a position he held until his retirement in 1997. Over the course of his 20-year career, he made 719 appearances for the Rossoneri, a record that stood until it was surpassed by his longtime teammate Paolo Maldini. As a central defender, Baresi was known for his exceptional positioning, reading of the game, and ability to organize the defense. Alongside Maldini, Mauro Tassotti, and Alessandro Costacurta, he formed one of the most formidable defensive units in European football history. His performances were instrumental in AC Milan’s dominance during the late 1980s and early 1990s, including their historic treble in 1989–90, which saw the club win the Serie A, Coppa Italia, and UEFA Champions League. At the international level, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy and was a member of the 1982 World Cup-winning squad, although he did not travel to the 1986 tournament due to a disagreement with the national team coach. He captained Italy to the 1994 World Cup final, where the team fell to Brazil on penalties. Despite the heartbreak, his leadership remained a defining characteristic of his career. In his post-playing career, Baresi remained active in football, particularly through his work with the Milan Foundation, which focused on charitable efforts around the world. He traveled extensively, visiting countries such as Kenya, Morocco, and Lebanon, where he engaged directly with local communities and shared experiences with young people. These activities reflected his belief in using football as a tool for positive change beyond the stadium. Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung nodule, and he expressed optimism about recovering fully. However, his health declined in the months leading up to his death, and he passed away shortly after his 66th birthday. Tributes poured in from across the global football community, with former teammates, coaches, and fans paying homage to his contributions to the sport. Football journalist Fabrizio Romano described Baresi as “an absolute legend of the game” whose influence spanned multiple generations. Clubs and organizations worldwide acknowledged his legacy, emphasizing his impact both on and off the field. Baresi is survived by his family, and his absence leaves a void in the hearts of millions of football fans around the world. His name will remain synonymous with excellence, loyalty, and the enduring spirit of AC Milan.