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Franco Baresi, the iconic sweeper and captain, who embodied ACMilan's dominance in the 1980s and 1990s, is no more. He passed away at the age of 66. The 'Johan Cruyff' of defenders', he was known as the Field Marshal in football.
A one club man throughout his career, he had been widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history.
Baresi wore Milan's number 6 shirt with such distiction that the club withdrew the number after his retirement.
Born in Travagilato, near Bresica, Baresi overcame personal tragedy at a young age after he and his brother Giuseppe were orphaned as teenagers. While Inter Milan signed Giuseppe, Franco joined their local rivals. It was a bond that had lasted a lifetime. He made his debut as a teenager and had quickly established himself as a first team regular.
Despite a slight physique for a defender, he compensated with his exceptional technique, anticipation,tackling ability and leadership. Those qualities earned him the captain's armband at the age of 22. He was one of the youngest captains in Milan's history.
When Milan had been relegated to Serie B twice in the early 1980s, he remained loyal during the turbulent years. He guided the club back to the top flight each time.
In 1982, with Italy, he became a World Cup winner , although he did not play during the tournament in Spain.
Baresi marshelled a formidable defence when Milan entered its Golden era in 1986.
Marco van Basten who had played along with him described him as 'The Johan Cruyff of defenders.'
Paolo Maldini, another teammate, wrote:
"You protected me when I was a child, guided me as a young man and inspired me as an adult. You were the gratest footballer I ever had the honour of playing with."
Franco Baresi, truly, remains among the game's all time greats
Based on report in the Times of India of 1 August 2026
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