Former AC Milan captain and Italian football icon Franco Baresi has died at the age of 66.
The news was announced on Friday by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano in a post on X, bringing an outpouring of tributes from across the football community.
“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.
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Baresi devoted his entire professional career to AC Milan, representing the Italian giants from 1977 until his retirement in 1997.
Over those 20 years, he made more than 700 appearances and cemented his place among football’s greatest defenders.
His remarkable spell at the club produced an impressive collection of honours, including six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups and two Intercontinental Cups.
On the international stage, Baresi featured 81 times for Italy. He was a member of the squad that lifted the 1982 FIFA World Cup and later captained the Azzurri to the final of the 1994 World Cup, where they were beaten by Brazil in a penalty shootout.
Following news of his death, clubs, former teammates, players and fans have paid tribute to the Italian legend, remembering not only his exceptional achievements on the field but also his character and humility off it.
Baresi is survived by his family as the football world mourns the passing of one of the finest defenders the sport has ever seen.