Legendary AC Milan Defender Franco Baresi Dies at 66 After Cancer Battle

Franco Baresi, one of the greatest defenders in football history and a legendary figure at AC Milan, passed away at the age of 66 after a prolonged battle with cancer. In August, he underwent surgery to remove a lung tumor but ultimately succumbed to the illness. Baresi was a World Cup winner with Italy in 1982 and captained AC Milan from the young age of 22, leading the team for 15 years during its golden era under coach Arrigo Sacchi.

Baresi anchored a formidable defense alongside Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta, Mauro Tassotti, and Christian Panucci. During the 1987/88 season, Milan conceded only 14 goals. He won the UEFA Champions League three times with Milan (1988/89, 1989/90, and 1993/94), including the memorable 4-0 final victory over Barcelona in 1994. Additionally, he secured six Serie A titles and was runner-up in the Ballon d'Or voting, a rare achievement for a defender, which led Milan to retire his jersey number in his honor.

Internationally, Baresi represented Italy from 1982 to 1994, earning 82 caps and being named to the 1990 World Cup All-Star team. He was recognized as AC Milan’s and Serie A’s Player of the Century by the Italian Footballers’ Association. Known for his versatility as both a central defender and sweeper, Baresi was a key figure in Sacchi’s tactical system.

After retiring, Baresi briefly coached Milan’s youth teams, including the under-20 squad. He is survived by his son, Edoardo Baresi. In Israel, Baresi is also known as the second name mentioned in the song "Ve'eleh Shemot" by Arik Einstein.