AC Milan legend Franco Baresi has died at the age of 66, bringing to an end the life of one of football’s greatest defenders whose 20-year one-club career, unmatched loyalty and revolutionary influence on the sweeper’s role earned him a permanent place among the game’s all-time icons.Baresi spent his entire professional playing career with AC Milan, making more than 700.During his two decades at the club, he won six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, and established himself as one of the greatest defenders in football history.PUNCH Online had earlierreported Baresi’s deathon Friday.Meanwhile, AC Milan on Friday on its website paid an emotional tribute to the former captain, describing him as “the Rossonero of the Century” and saying his legacy would continue to inspire the club and its supporters.Related NewsMorocco edge Algeria to book WAFCON quarter-final spotEx-Milan legend Baresi dies at 66W’Cup qualifiers: NCF names Junior Yellow Greens squadIn honour of the iconic defender, here are 20 remarkable facts that defined the life and career of the man whose No. 6 shirt was retired by the Italian giants.Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Rossoneri, captaining the side through one of the most successful periods in its history.In a statement on Friday, Milan said announcing the death of a player who “embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan” was “incredibly difficult,” adding that everyone associated with the club must honour his memory.“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history. Baresi spent his entire professional playing career with AC Milan, making more than 700.During his two decades at the club, he won six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, and established himself as one of the greatest defenders in football history.PUNCH Online had earlierreported Baresi’s deathon Friday.Meanwhile, AC Milan on Friday on its website paid an emotional tribute to the former captain, describing him as “the Rossonero of the Century” and saying his legacy would continue to inspire the club and its supporters.Related NewsMorocco edge Algeria to book WAFCON quarter-final spotEx-Milan legend Baresi dies at 66W’Cup qualifiers: NCF names Junior Yellow Greens squadIn honour of the iconic defender, here are 20 remarkable facts that defined the life and career of the man whose No. 6 shirt was retired by the Italian giants.Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Rossoneri, captaining the side through one of the most successful periods in its history.In a statement on Friday, Milan said announcing the death of a player who “embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan” was “incredibly difficult,” adding that everyone associated with the club must honour his memory.“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history. During his two decades at the club, he won six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, and established himself as one of the greatest defenders in football history.PUNCH Online had earlierreported Baresi’s deathon Friday.Meanwhile, AC Milan on Friday on its website paid an emotional tribute to the former captain, describing him as “the Rossonero of the Century” and saying his legacy would continue to inspire the club and its supporters.Related NewsMorocco edge Algeria to book WAFCON quarter-final spotEx-Milan legend Baresi dies at 66W’Cup qualifiers: NCF names Junior Yellow Greens squadIn honour of the iconic defender, here are 20 remarkable facts that defined the life and career of the man whose No. 6 shirt was retired by the Italian giants.Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Rossoneri, captaining the side through one of the most successful periods in its history.In a statement on Friday, Milan said announcing the death of a player who “embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan” was “incredibly difficult,” adding that everyone associated with the club must honour his memory.“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history. PUNCH Online had earlierreported Baresi’s deathon Friday.Meanwhile, AC Milan on Friday on its website paid an emotional tribute to the former captain, describing him as “the Rossonero of the Century” and saying his legacy would continue to inspire the club and its supporters.Related NewsMorocco edge Algeria to book WAFCON quarter-final spotEx-Milan legend Baresi dies at 66W’Cup qualifiers: NCF names Junior Yellow Greens squadIn honour of the iconic defender, here are 20 remarkable facts that defined the life and career of the man whose No. 6 shirt was retired by the Italian giants.Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Rossoneri, captaining the side through one of the most successful periods in its history.In a statement on Friday, Milan said announcing the death of a player who “embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan” was “incredibly difficult,” adding that everyone associated with the club must honour his memory.“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history. Meanwhile, AC Milan on Friday on its website paid an emotional tribute to the former captain, describing him as “the Rossonero of the Century” and saying his legacy would continue to inspire the club and its supporters.Related NewsMorocco edge Algeria to book WAFCON quarter-final spotEx-Milan legend Baresi dies at 66W’Cup qualifiers: NCF names Junior Yellow Greens squadIn honour of the iconic defender, here are 20 remarkable facts that defined the life and career of the man whose No. 6 shirt was retired by the Italian giants.Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Rossoneri, captaining the side through one of the most successful periods in its history.In a statement on Friday, Milan said announcing the death of a player who “embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan” was “incredibly difficult,” adding that everyone associated with the club must honour his memory.“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history. In honour of the iconic defender, here are 20 remarkable facts that defined the life and career of the man whose No. 6 shirt was retired by the Italian giants.Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Rossoneri, captaining the side through one of the most successful periods in its history.In a statement on Friday, Milan said announcing the death of a player who “embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan” was “incredibly difficult,” adding that everyone associated with the club must honour his memory.“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history. Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with the Rossoneri, captaining the side through one of the most successful periods in its history.In a statement on Friday, Milan said announcing the death of a player who “embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan” was “incredibly difficult,” adding that everyone associated with the club must honour his memory.“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history. In a statement on Friday, Milan said announcing the death of a player who “embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan” was “incredibly difficult,” adding that everyone associated with the club must honour his memory.“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history. “In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever,” the club said, recalling that his last public appearance came only months ago before a packed San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics.Here are the20 best things to know about Franco Baresi, distilled from the profile and prioritised for readers:Franco Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, redefining the sweeper (libero) role with intelligence, positioning and leadership.He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, making719 appearancesbetween 1977 and 1997.His iconic No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milanafter his retirement—an honour reserved for only the club’s greatest legends.He captained AC Milan from just 22 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in the club’s history.He won six Serie A titleswith Milan during one of the club’s most successful eras.He lifted three European Cups (Champions League titles)in1989, 1990 and 1994.Despite his relatively small frame for a defender, he became famous for his anticipation, timing, tackling, composure and tactical intelligence.He remained loyal to Milan even after the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them earn promotion back to the top flight on both occasions.He was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982, although he did not play during the tournament.He earned 81 international caps for Italy, becoming one of the country’s most respected defenders.He suffered one of football’s cruellest moments in the 1994 World Cup final, returning from knee surgery in record time before missing a penalty as Italy lost to Brazil.He also experienced World Cup heartbreak in 1990, when Italy lost to Argentina on penalties in the semi-finals on home soil.He was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s revolutionary Milan side, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.He played alongside Dutch legends Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, forming one of football’s greatest club teams.Marco van Basten famously described him as “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,”praising both his football intelligence and winning mentality.He finished second in the 1989 Ballon d’Or, losing only to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.He was later named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, underlining his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.His childhood was marked by tragedy, as he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned while still teenagers, an experience he said shaped his character.Although his brother Giuseppe signed for Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, beginning one of football’s most enduring one-club careers.Even after retiring in 1997, he never truly left Milan, serving the club in executive, youth development and ambassadorial roles, once describing his lasting emotion towards the Rossoneri as“immense gratitude.”Notable mentionsHe made his Serie A debut as a teenager, handed his first-team chance by legendary coach Nils Liedholm.He played through two vastly different eras at AC Milan—from the club’s struggles in the early 1980s to its dominance under Silvio Berlusconi, Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello.He missed the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but returned to become Italy’s defensive leader at the next two tournaments.His recovery before the 1994 World Cup final was remarkable, returning from knee surgery to play in the final just weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.He once said football allowed him to express emotions he kept hidden off the pitch, reflecting on how being orphaned as a teenager made him reserved.His football legacy extended to his family, with his niece, Regina Baresi, captaining Inter Milan’s women’s team.He remained deeply involved with AC Milan after retirement, serving as vice-president, working with the youth academy and later becoming a club ambassador.His final public reflection on AC Milan summed up his lifelong bond with the club:“What feeling remains in the end? Immense gratitude.”He experienced every side of football with Milan—relegation, promotion, domestic glory, European dominance and enduring club legend status.His career spanned exactly 20 years (1977–1997), making him one of the longest-serving and most influential one-club players in football history.