Remembering Franco Baresi, AC Milan's Legendary No. 6

Franco Baresi, a legend of AC Milan, has passed away at 66. His death marks the end of the life of one of football’s top defenders. Baresi had a 20-year career with just one club, showing unmatched loyalty and changing the way the sweeper role is played. He is now remembered as one of the game’s all-time greats.

Baresi played his whole career at AC Milan, making over 700 appearances for the team.

During his time at the club, he won six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups, and two Intercontinental Cups. He is considered one of the best defenders in football history.

To celebrate the life of this iconic player, here are 20 key facts that highlight his career and life. His No. 6 shirt was retired by AC Milan, a true honor for their greatest legends.

Baresi is often seen as one of the best defenders ever. He redefined the sweeper role with his smart play, great positioning, and leadership skills.

He spent his entire professional playing career at AC Milan, making 719 appearances from 1977 to 1997.

AC Milan retired his famous No. 6 shirt after he retired, showing how much he meant to the club.

He became AC Milan's captain at just 22 years old, making him one of the youngest in the club's history.

Baresi won six Serie A titles with Milan during a time when the club was at its best.

He also won three European Cups, now known as the Champions League, in 1989, 1990, and 1994.

Even though he was not very tall for a defender, he was known for his anticipation, timing, tackling, calmness, and smart play.

He stayed loyal to Milan even when the club was relegated to Serie B twice, helping them return to Serie A both times.

Baresi was part of the Italy team that won the World Cup in 1982, but he didn't play in any matches during that tournament.

He earned 81 caps for Italy, becoming one of the nation's most respected defenders.

He faced heartbreak in the 1994 World Cup final. He returned from knee surgery quickly but missed a penalty in the shootout as Italy lost to Brazil.

He also had tough moments in the 1990 World Cup. Italy lost to Argentina in the semi-finals on penalties while playing at home.

Baresi was the defensive leader of Arrigo Sacchi’s famous Milan team, alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti, and Alessandro Costacurta.

He played with Dutch greats Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard, and Marco van Basten, creating one of the best club teams in football history.

Marco van Basten once said Baresi was “the Johan Cruyff of defenders,” praising his football intelligence and winning spirit.

He came second in the 1989 Ballon d'Or, only losing to his Milan teammate Marco van Basten.

Later, he was named AC Milan’s Player of the Century, which highlights his status as one of the club’s greatest players.

Baresi's childhood was tough. He and his brother Giuseppe lost their parents when they were teenagers. This experience greatly influenced his life.

Even though his brother Giuseppe joined Inter Milan, Franco chose AC Milan, starting one of football’s longest single-club careers.

After retiring in 1997, he remained close to Milan. He worked in various roles, including executive and youth development, and once said his feelings for the club were of “immense gratitude.”