Ex-Milan legend Baresi dies at 66
July 31, 2026 8:06 am
Ex-AC Milan captain and Italy great
Photo: GETTY IMAGES
Former AC Milan captain and Italy great Franco Baresi has died at the age of 66, according to a post by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on X on Friday.
Baresi spent his entire professional playing career with AC Milan, making more than 700 appearances between 1977 and 1997.
During his two decades at the club, he won six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, and established himself as one of the greatest defenders in football history.
“Sad news from Italy as Franco Baresi has passed away this morning at 66 years old.
“An absolute legend of the game with AC Milan and Italy, marking an era for different generations.
“Thoughts and prayers with the family and friends.
“Rest in peace, Franco,” Romano wrote on X.
On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy and was part of the squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup. He later captained the Azzurri to the 1994 FIFA World Cup final, where Italy finished runners-up to Brazil on penalties.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the football world, with clubs, former teammates, players, and supporters remembering Baresi for both his achievements on the pitch and his humility away from it.
He is survived by his family, while the football community mourns the loss of a player widely regarded as one of the finest defenders the game has ever produced.
Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
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