AC Milan icon and Italy legend Franco Baresi is dead

The football world has been thrown into mourning following the death of former AC Milan captain and Italy legend Franco Baresi at the age of 66.

News of the legendary defender’s passing was confirmed on Friday by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano in a post on X.

Romano wrote: “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.”

Baresi devoted his entire professional career to AC Milan, representing the Italian giants from 1977 to 1997 and making more than 700 appearances.

His remarkable two-decade spell at the San Siro produced six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups and two Intercontinental Cups, cementing his place among the greatest defenders the game has ever seen.

On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy and was part of the squad that lifted the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

He later captained the Azzurri to the final of the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where Italy finished runners-up to Brazil after a penalty shootout.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football community, with clubs, former teammates, players and supporters remembering not only his outstanding achievements on the pitch but also his humility away from the game.

Baresi is survived by his family, while the football world continues to mourn the passing of one of the sport’s most iconic defenders.