AC Milan Honors Legendary Captain Franco Baresi After His Passing at 66
AC Milan legend and former Italy defender Franco Baresi has died at 66, leaving behind a legacy of 719 appearances and numerous major career titles.
Mehmet Şahinoğlu ·
Legendary Italian international defender and former AC Milan captain Franco Baresi passed away on July 31, 2026, at the age of 66. Baresi, who spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Serie A club, was widely recognized for his instrumental role in creating one of European football's most formidable defensive units.
Two Decades of Leadership and Trophies
From 1977 to 1997, Baresi made 719 appearances for AC Milan. He captained the club for 15 seasons, leading them to six Serie A titles and three European Cup trophies. His leadership was a cornerstone of a dominant era for the Rossoneri.
AC Milan retired his iconic number six jersey in 2024 as a lasting tribute to his legacy. On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy, contributing to their 1982 FIFA World Cup victory and featuring prominently in the 1994 World Cup final.
Enduring Legacy in World Football
Baresi's health had been in decline following surgical intervention in August 2025 to remove a lung nodule. His passing marks the loss of a central figure in Italian football history, whose tactical intelligence and remarkable longevity set high benchmarks for the sweeper position.
The club confirmed his death, stating that his example and integrity 'will be forever etched into the club's DNA.' His influence extended beyond his playing career; AC Milan emphasized that his legacy remains deeply integrated into the club's operational identity. Baresi's impact on the game, particularly his role in creating Milan's celebrated defense alongside Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta, and Mauro Tassotti, cemented his status as one of football's all-time great defenders.
A Benchmark for Defenders
The football world mourns the loss of Franco Baresi, remembering his profound contributions to AC Milan and the Italian national team. His career exemplifies a rare combination of talent, dedication, and leadership that significantly shaped modern football, leaving an indelible mark on the sport's history and defensive tactics.