Franco Baresi…a rock of defense that created the glory of Milan and Italy sports

Franco Baresi is considered one of the greatest defenders in the history of Italian and international football, and a symbol of leadership, discipline and loyalty. He has created an immortal place for himself in the memory of the fans, not only thanks to his outstanding defensive skills, but also thanks to his leadership personality and fighting spirit that has inspired entire generations of players.

Baresi’s legacy is evident in his agile and intelligent defense, his role as a defensive organizer, and his lifelong commitment to one club, Milan, for which he withheld his No. 6 shirt in gratitude.

Beginnings and loyalty to Milan

Baresi was born on May 8, 1960 in the town of Travagliato in northern Italy, and grew up passionate about football despite Inter Milan’s rejection of him in his early days, before he found his real opportunity in the Milan Academy when he was 14 years old.

He participated for the first time with the first team in 1977, at the age of only 17 years, and quickly proved that he was different from others with his ability to read the game and his ideal position in the back line.

Baresi spent his entire professional career with Milan, which reflects his rare loyalty in the world of modern football. He did not leave the team even during its most difficult period when it was relegated to the second division, but rather remained its leader and protective shield until its return to the top.

In 1982, he took over the captaincy at the age of only 22, leading the major revival that transformed Milan from a faltering club into an invincible European power.

Dominance with Saki and the rise of the legend

Baresi’s career reached its peak under the leadership of coach Arrigo Sacchi in the late 1980s, when Milan introduced modern football based on collective pressure and advanced defence, and Baresi was the heart of this vibrant system with his organization, experience and perfect positioning.

He led the team to achieve historic achievements, most notably winning the European Cup (Champions League) 3 times, including two consecutive times in 1989 and 1990. He also achieved 6 Italian League titles and 3 European Super Cup titles in a period described as “the golden era for Milan.”

At the international level, Baresi was the pillar of the Italian defense for many years, as he participated in 3 editions of the World Cup, and performed exceptionally in the 1994 edition despite his serious injury.

Baresi also formed part of the Italy squad that won the World Cup in 1982, and led the team to the final in 1994, before ending up losing on penalties to Brazil.

Immortal leadership and an unforgettable legacy

Baresi was not just a defender, but a natural leader with his ability to motivate and contain his teammates on and off the field. He was a true role model for the stars of the next generation, such as Paolo Maldini. When he retired in 1997, Milan decided to withhold the number 6 in honor of his great legacy, a gesture that is only given to the greats who make history.

After his retirement, Baresi remained linked to Milan by working in the club’s academy and as its official ambassador. He also participated in charitable initiatives to support children and education through sports, and his name remained synonymous with loyalty, discipline, professionalism and a symbol of the unbreakable Italian defense spirit.

The day Franco Baresi retired from football 🥹 pic.twitter.com/SKSnBdpfRL

— 90s Football (@90sfootball) September 2, 2025