Franco Baresi, the legendary defender of Milan and Italy, has died at the age of 66
Franco Baresi, the legendary defender of Milan and Italy, has died at the age of 66, leaving behind a great legacy in the world of football.
Franco Baresi, the legendary defender of Milan and Italy, has died at the age of 66
According toSports.
Background
Franco Baresi, who played 719 matches for Milan, is considered an icon of the club and Italian football, and has contributed to strengthening Milan's position as one of the greatest clubs in the world. His achievements, including national and international titles, make him a pivotal figure in football history.
Why is this important?
The death of Franco Baresi is a great loss to Italian football, as he was one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game. Baresi left a great legacy at Milan, where he helped win many titles, reflecting his great influence on the club and its fans.
Key points
- Franco Baresi, the legendary defender of Milan and Italy, has died at the age of 66.
- Franco Baresi, the legendary defender of Milan and Italy, has died at the age of 66, leaving behind a great legacy in the world of football.
- Franco Baresi, legendary AC Milan and Italy defender, aged 66 - Yahoo Sports.
The cause of death has not been revealed, but it is reported that Parisi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung tumor and has been receiving treatment since then. His last appearance was last February at the San Siro, where he carried the torch at the opening of the Winter Olympics.
Milan expressed their deep sorrow by saying: "Milan's entire history is in tears. To announce the loss of someone who embodied the heart and soul of Milan is very difficult. But all Milan fans must live by the memory of Franco Baresi, and we must be strong in this sad time. Baresi's example and integrity will remain engraved in the club's DNA, just as his famous number 6 will be."
Baresi took over the captaincy in Milan at the age of twenty-three, and is considered one of the best defenders in football history, having played 719 matches with the club over 20 seasons. During this period, Baresi achieved numerous titles, including six Serie A titles, starting his career with his first Scudetto in 1978-79, and achieving five more titles in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
The legendary defender also won three Champions League titles, two Intercontinental Cup titles, and four Italian Super Cup titles. At the international level, he was part of the Italian national team that won the World Cup in 1982, and also participated in the 1994 World Cup, which ended with Italy losing on penalties to Brazil.
Upon his retirement in 1997, Milan also decided to retire the number 6 worn by Baresi, which became a precedent in Italian football. The club also organized a celebratory match in his honor, in which many stars who played with or against him participated.
Last February, Baresi was one of the torchbearers at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, where he appeared with Giuseppe Bergomi, his old rival on the field. The club confirmed: "We lost Franco a few months after his last appearance at San Siro, in an international event that contributed to making it unforgettable. In Franco's memory, we stand united, knowing that he will guide us on our Crosonerie journey. Because he is a Parisian, he will always remain in our hearts."
President of the Italian Football Federation, Giovanni Malago, commented: "Italian football has lost one of its legends. Baresi was an exceptional hero, who only wore two shirts during his career: Milan and the Azzurri. His romantic choices had earned him a place in the hearts of fans and millions of Italians. We will remember him as he deserves during the upcoming matches of the national team, to whom he always showed exceptional loyalty, becoming one of its glorious symbols."
What's next?
AC Milan is expected to honor Baresi's memory in multiple ways, including organizing special events and creating moments in upcoming matches. His influence on current and future players will remain present, enhancing the team's spirit and reflecting its values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cause of Franco Baresi's death?
The cause of death has not been revealed, but it is reported that Parisi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung tumor and has been receiving treatment since then.
How many matches did Franco Baresi play for Milan?
Franco Baresi played 719 matches for AC Milan during 20 seasons.
What titles did Franco Baresi achieve with Milan?
Baresi won numerous titles with Milan, including six Serie A titles and three Champions League titles.
When did Franco Baresi take over the captaincy in Milan?
Franco Baresi took over the captaincy in Milan at the age of twenty-three.
When was Franco Baresi's last appearance?
His last appearance was last February at the San Siro, where he carried the torch at the opening of the Winter Olympics.
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