AC Milan legend and World Cup winner Franco Baresi dies at 66

Published Jul 31, 08:15 AM UTC

Franco Baresi, widely regarded as the greatest centre-back in football history, has died at the age of 66. The Italian spent his entire 20-season club career at AC Milan, winning six Serie A titles and three European Cups (Champions Leagues). He also lifted the 1982 World Cup with Italy. This article is an excerpt from The Athletic's book 'The Soccer 100,' which profiles the 100 greatest players of all time. It details Baresi's humble upbringing on a farm near Brescia, his visionary understanding of space on the pitch, and his deep connection to his roots. The piece also highlights a tribute from film director Werner Herzog, who compared Baresi's spatial awareness to his own cinematic vision. Baresi's death marks the end of an era for one of football's most iconic defenders.