Football World in Tears as AC Milan Legend Franco Baresi Dies at 66

(Franco Baresi. Photo by Punch News)

Franco Baresi, the legendary former AC Milan captain and Italy international, has died at the age of 66.

News of his passing was shared by football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano in a post on social media on Friday.

Baresi spent his entire career at AC Milan, turning out for the club more than 700 times between 1977 and 1997.

In that time, he lifted six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups and two Intercontinental Cups, cementing his reputation as one of the finest defenders the sport has ever seen.

Romano described Baresi as an absolute legend of the game at both club and international level, someone who left his mark across different generations.

He extended his thoughts and prayers to Baresi’s family and friends, wishing him rest in peace.

Internationally, Baresi represented Italy 81 times and was part of the squad that lifted the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

He went on to captain the national team to the final of the 1994 World Cup, where they lost to Brazil on penalties.

Since news of his death broke, tributes have poured in from across the football world, with clubs, ex-teammates, current players and fans honouring both his sporting achievements and his humility off the pitch.

Baresi is survived by his family, and he is being remembered by the football community as one of the greatest defenders the game has ever produced.