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Franco Baresi
Captaining AC Milan’s great defence through three European Cup victories.
World Cup squad · Back-to-back European Cups
- Born
- 8 May 1960
- Birthplace
- Travagliato, Italy
- Died
- 31 July 2026
More people
Franco Baresi
Franco Baresi was an Italian defender whose anticipation and leadership defined AC Milan’s back line.
Early life
Rural childhood
He grew up on a farm near Brescia.
Football brothers
His older brother Giuseppe joined Inter; Franco found his place at rival Milan.
Career
- 1977
Milan debut
He entered the first team after developing in its academy.
- 1982
Captain
He took the armband while Milan was rebuilding after relegation.
- 1988–1994
European power
He led the defence through league titles and three European Cups.
- 1997
Retirement
Milan retired his number six shirt after his final season.
Achievements
World Cup squad
He was part of Italy’s winning squad without playing in the tournament.
Back-to-back European Cups
Milan retained Europe’s leading club trophy.
World Cup finalist
He returned from knee surgery to captain Italy in the final.
Beyond football
Club ambassador
After retirement he remained involved at Milan, including as honorary vice-president.
Family rivalry
He and Giuseppe represented opposing sides of Milan’s football divide.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗UEFA obituary and career ↗Photo: Unknown author Unknown author. Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
