Death of Milan and Italy legend Franco Baresi at the age of 66

AC Milan, the Serie A competitor, announced on Friday the death of its legend and former Italy national team defender Franco Baresi at the age of 66. Baresi was considered one of the standout players of his generation and a symbol of the golden era of Italian football in the 1980s and 1990s.

Through its X (formerly Twitter) account, Milan stated, “The entire history of Milan mourns the passing of Franco Baresi. His example and integrity will remain etched in the heart of the club forever, just like his iconic number 6 jersey.”

Last year, Milan announced that Baresi, who served as honorary vice president, underwent surgery to remove a lung nodule and received treatment from a cancer specialist.

In February, Baresi was one of the first Olympic torchbearers at the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina Winter Games, appearing alongside Giuseppe Bergomi, the former Inter Milan and Italy defender, who had been his fierce on-pitch rival for many years.

Baresi is an icon at Milan, having spent his entire 20-year career with the club. He won six Serie A titles and three major European trophies, captaining the team for 15 seasons before retiring in 1997.

Milan retired his number 6 jersey at the end of his career, making him the first player in the club’s history to receive this honor.