Thousands of mourners gathered in Milan on Tuesday as football greats joined family, friends and supporters to pay their final respects to AC Milan and Italy legend Franco Baresi.
The former defender, who died last week at the age of 66 following a period of ill health, was honoured at a funeral service held at the historic Sant’Ambrogio Basilica in central Milan.
Supporters lined the streets around the church wearing AC Milan colours and holding scarves and shirts bearing Baresi’s famous No. 6, creating an emotional farewell for one of the club’s greatest-ever captains.
Milan legends unite in tribute
Several of football’s biggest names attended the funeral to celebrate Baresi’s life and remarkable career.
Among those present were AC Milan legends Paolo Maldini, Marco van Basten, Clarence Seedorf, Alessandro Costacurta and Dida, alongside Italian icon Roberto Baggio.
United States international Christian Pulisic, who remains on his summer break after the World Cup, also travelled to attend the service.
AC Milan have announced plans to honour Baresi with a special tribute before Wednesday’s pre-season friendly against Inter Milan in Australia.
Club hails enduring legacy
Following Baresi’s death, AC Milan released an emotional statement describing the club legend as a figure who represented the heart and identity of the Rossoneri.
“Announcing the loss of someone who embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan is incredibly difficult.
The club added: “In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever.”
Baresi spent his entire professional career with AC Milan, winning six Serie A titles and three European Cups during one of the most successful eras in the club’s history.
He also enjoyed a distinguished international career with Italy, helping the Azzurri win the 1982 FIFA World Cup and establishing himself as one of the finest defenders the game has produced.
His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the football world, with players, clubs and supporters remembering not only his achievements on the pitch but also his leadership, loyalty and lasting influence on Italian football.