Franco Baresi: Roberto Baggio’s Heartfelt Message

Roberto Baggio also paid tribute to the legend Franco Baresi, who passed away at the age of 66 after a long illness. The former “Divin Codino,” Baresi’s teammate at the 1990 and 1994 World Cups—which ended in third and second place, respectively—sent this message: “So much pain and so much sadness—goodbye, Captain,” wrote Baggio, accompanying a historic photo taken after the 1994 World Cup final in the U.S., when both players missed their penalty kicks.

Here’s what one of Baresi’s rivals, former Inter striker Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, had to say: “With Franco Baresi’s passing, soccer has lost one of the greatest defenders and one of the most important captains in its history. Even after our first derbies in Italy, I realized I was up against an extraordinary defender. Franco embodied leadership, fair play, and absolute class.”

“He left an indelible mark on Milan and on Italian soccer. My thoughts go out to his family and the entire Milan family.”

Barcelona also paid tribute to Baresi in a statement posted on social media: “FC Barcelona wishes to express its deepest condolences on the passing of Franco Baresi, a legend of Italian soccer and the eternal captain of AC Milan. His leadership, elegance, and legacy in the world of soccer will always remain in the memories of fans. Rest in peace, Franco.”

Heart-wrenching words also came from Paolo Maldini, who shared years of glory with Baresi in the Rossoneri colors. In an open letter posted on his Instagram profile, the former fullback wrote: “Today I feel the same way I did whenever, for whatever reason, you couldn’t take the field alongside us: how will we manage without our Captain? You taught me to fight until my last breath, what it means to be devoted to the jersey, and the value of being a true leader. You did so by example, every day: few words, but so many deeds. You protected me when I was a child, guided me as a teenager, and inspired me as a man. You were the greatest soccer player I’ve ever had the honor of playing with. A warm embrace to your entire family, especially your wife Maura and your sons, Edoardo and Giannandrea. We’ll miss you, Captain. But the light of your star will continue to guide us forever.”