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Franco Baresi, the legendary AC Milan and Italy defender who spent his entire professional career with the Rossoneri, has died at the age of 66 following an illness, according to an announcement by the club on its official channels. Baresi defined an era of Italian football, winning countless domestic and international honors while wearing the iconic number 6 jersey that the club later recognized as part of its DNA.
AC Milan and Italian Football Pay Tribute to a Legend
According to AC Milan, the club’s history is in mourning following the loss of its historic captain. Current club owner Gerry Cardinale stated via official club communications that Baresi embodied the values, character, and excellence of the institution across generations. Cardinale noted that even during his final year, while facing his greatest health challenge, Baresi remained a steadfast supporter of the team.
The Italian Football Federation, through President Giovanni Malagò, stated that Italian football lost an extraordinary champion who chose a romantic career path by representing only two teams: AC Milan and the Italian national team. Malagò announced that the federation will honor Baresi during the upcoming fixtures of the Azzurra.
The Italian Association of Footballers released a statement emphasizing that the sport lost not only one of the strongest defenders in history but also an absolute symbol of style, sportsmanship, and fair play. Serie A clubs including Bologna, Parma, Atalanta, Monza, Fiorentina, Genoa, and Udinese issued statements recognizing Baresi as a symbol and legend of Italian football.
Former teammate Paolo Maldini shared an emotional tribute on social media, asking what the team will do without its captain and crediting Baresi with teaching him how to fight until the final breath and what it means to remain loyal to club colors. Former goalkeeper Dino Zoff remembered Baresi as an extraordinary and kind person, while Gianluigi Buffon recalled facing Baresi during his own debut at age 17 with Juventus on November 19, 1995, noting that the encounter demonstrated the true meaning of class, leadership, and respect on the pitch.
Legacy and Impact on the Azzurra
Political leaders also acknowledged the cultural and sporting weight of the loss. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that the country lost one of the greatest champions in its sporting history, highlighting Baresi’s dedication and integrity.
Baresi joins a somber roster of Italian football icons who passed away prematurely in recent years, including Gianluca Vialli, Paolo Rossi, and Salvatore Schillaci. His career stands as a benchmark for defensive mastery, positioning him permanently among the best defenders of all time.
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