Franco Baresi: Nesta, Inzaghi, and Shevchenko’s Emotional Reactions

Franco Baresi’s death has deeply shaken the hearts of many former Milan players: over the years, the Rossoneri legend left a lasting impression on everyone who passed through Milanello. Among the many champions paying tribute to him is Filippo Inzaghi, who shared a special anecdote.

“In Parma, many years ago, I was lucky enough to play against you. I was wearing number 16, and I didn’t even get into that game. After the match, I asked you for your jersey. You looked at me and said, ‘But aren’t you going to give me yours?’ A simple phrase, but one that has stayed with me throughout my entire career. From that day on, every time a player asked me for my jersey, I asked him for his—just as you did with me. May your spirit and your charisma take root in all our hearts and in the captains of tomorrow. Goodbye, Franco. Thank you, Cuore Rossonero. Forever.”

Alessandro Nesta, former defender for the Diavolo, posted this: “Thank you for everything you gave us. The great Franco, an eternal role model—rest in peace.”

Former striker and Ballon d’Or winner Andriy Shevchenko also paid tribute to the legendary Rossoneri No. 6: “A Milan man. A legend. A wonderful person. A role model. The beauty of soccer. Farewell, dear, eternal Franco Baresi.”