“Rossonero forever,” – AC Milan called the farewell message, emphasizing that F. Baresi embodied the heart and soul of the club. After his career, the number six jersey he wore was retired, and in 2020 the Italian became the club’s honorary vice president.
F. Baresi is considered one of the best defenders in football history. Playing as a libero, the Italian stood out for his ability to read the game, impeccable positioning, technique, and leadership qualities.
He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan. F. Baresi joined Milan’s youth system in 1974 and debuted in the first team in 1978, before turning 18.
At just 22, he became AC Milan’s captain and later, together with Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti, and Alessandro Costacurta, formed one of the most famous defensive lines in European football history.
With Milan, F. Baresi won the Italian championship six times and claimed the most prestigious European club football trophy three times. He ended his career in 1997, having played 719 matches for AC Milan. Only P. Maldini has played more games in the club’s history.
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The defender wore the Italian national team jersey 81 times. He was a member of the 1982 World Cup-winning team and in 1994, as captain, led Italy to the tournament final. In the decisive match against Brazil, F. Baresi missed a penalty, and Italy lost the shootout.
In the 1990 World Cup, the Italian team with F. Baresi reached the semifinals but lost to Argentina in a penalty shootout and eventually won the bronze medals.
In August 2025, F. Baresi underwent surgery to remove a nodule found in his lungs. The procedure was successful, and later doctors prescribed him a course of immunotherapy. AC Milan did not disclose the cause of death.
F. Baresi last appeared at one of the biggest public ceremonies in February 2026, when he took part in the opening of the Milan Winter Olympic Games at a packed San Siro stadium.
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