Franco Baresi, the iconic sweeper who captained AC Milan to European and domestic glory, has died at 66, plunging the club into mourning. The Rossoneri announced the loss on Friday, paying tribute to a man whose influence extended far beyond the pitch. Baresi’s death comes months after a lung nodule surgery in August 2025, though the club did not specify the cause. Main Developments AC Milan issued an emotional statement on X, describing the club as being “in tears” following Baresi’s passing. The message emphasized that his “example and integrity” would remain etched into the club’s DNA, just like his retired number 6 shirt. Baresi had served as honorary vice-president since 2020. The club referenced his last public appearance at the Milan Winter Olympics opening ceremony, held in a packed San Siro just months before his death. “We lost Franco only a few months after his last public appearance,” the statement read, adding that he would “guide and push” the team forever. Read also: FIFA weighs 64-team World Cup for 2030 centennial Tributes poured in from former teammates and rivals. Paolo Maldini, who surpassed Baresi’s club appearance record, asked, “How are we going to cope without our captain?” Gianluigi Buffon recalled making his Serie A debut for Parma against Milan on November 19, 1995, calling the experience of facing Baresi “unbelievable.” Background Born in Lombardy in May 1960, Baresi joined Milan’s youth setup in 1974 and debuted for the first team in 1978, just before his 18th birthday. He became a starter at 18 and captain at 22, earning recognition for his technique, anticipation, and leadership. Alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti, and Alessandro Costacurta, he formed a defense feared across Europe. During his tenure, Milan won three European Cups and six Italian league titles. He retired in 1997 after 719 matches, a club record later broken only by Maldini. Internationally, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy, winning the 1982 World Cup from the bench, though he missed the 1986 tournament after a disagreement with the national coach. Despite his successes, penalty shootout defeats in the 1990 semi-final and 1994 final denied him further World Cup glory. Diego Maradona’s Argentina eliminated Italy in 1990, but Maradona had earlier paid Baresi the ultimate compliment after Napoli beat Milan 3-0 in 1989, asking for his shirt and wearing it during a post-match interview. Why It Matters Baresi is widely regarded as one of the greatest sweepers in football history, redefining the role with his reading of the game and precise tackling. His passing marks the end of an era for AC Milan, whose modern identity was built on the defensive solidity he embodied. The club’s statement underscores how deeply his legacy is woven into its fabric. Beyond trophies, Baresi’s post-retirement work with the Milan Foundation highlighted a different side of his character. He spoke of witnessing poverty in Kenya and Morocco and playing street football with children in Lebanon, describing these experiences as “emotions that have completed me.” His brief spell as technical director of Fulham lasted only a month, as he admitted the “umbilical cord with Milan was never broken.” What's Next AC Milan has not announced funeral arrangements or public memorial plans. The club’s tribute suggests Baresi will be honored at upcoming matches, likely with a minute of silence at San Siro. Fans and players alike will look to carry forward his standard of integrity and excellence, as the club navigates a season now shadowed by his loss.