Paolo Maldini has led the tributes to Italy and AC Milan icon Franco Baresi after the legendary defender died at the age of 66.
Maldini, who spent his entire professional career at Milan alongside Baresi during one of the club’s most successful eras, paid an emotional tribute to the man he credited with shaping his career both on and off the pitch.
Maldini remembers icon
“You taught me to fight until my very last breath and showed me the meaning of devotion to the jersey and the value of being a true leader,” Maldini wrote on Instagram.
“You protected me when I was a child, guided me as a young man and inspired me as an adult.
“You were the greatest player I ever had the honour of playing with.
“We will miss you, captain – but the light of your star will continue to guide us forever.”
An extraordinary career
Baresi, one of football’s greatest-ever defenders, spent his entire 20-year professional career with AC Milan, making 719 appearances after debuting in 1977.
The Rossoneri captain helped transform Milan into one of Europe’s dominant clubs, winning six Serie A titles, three European Cups, two Intercontinental Cups and four Italian Super Cups.
His extraordinary contribution to the club was recognised when Milan retired the number six shirt following his retirement.
On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy and was part of the squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
He also captained the Azzurri to the 1994 World Cup final, where they were beaten by Brazil on penalties.
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‘Baresi is forever’
AC Milan had earlier confirmed the news of Baresi’s death.
“The entire history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi,” the club posted on X.
“His example and integrity will be forever etched into the club’s DNA, just as his iconic number six shirt is.”
In a statement on the club’s website, Milan added: “Announcing the loss of someone who embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan is incredibly difficult.
“But everyone at the club and all the Milanisti must live up to Franco Baresi’s memory.
“We must be strong and gather every bit of energy, even at this saddest of times.
“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey.
“Forever. Because Baresi is forever.”
FIGC laments loss
Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malagò likewise paid tribute to one of the nation’s most admired footballers in a press release on the governing body’s website.
“Italian football has lost one of its legends,” he said.
“An extraordinary champion who wore only two jerseys throughout his career: AC Milan and the Azzurri.
“A romantic choice that saw him rightly capture the hearts of fans and millions of Italians.
“We will honour his memory as he deserves during Italy’s upcoming matches, for a national team to which he always showed exceptional dedication, becoming one of its most glorious symbols.”
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