Italian · Travagliato, Brescia · Born 8 May 1960AC Milan's imperious sweeper and Italy captain — arguably the greatest defensive organiser the game has ever seen.
Franco Baresi was born in Travagliato, Brescia in 1960 and spent his entire 20-year career at AC Milan (1977–1997), making 719 appearances — the second highest in club history. He won 6 Serie A titles, 3 Champions League trophies and 24 major trophies in total. He earned 81 Italy caps scoring 1 goal, part of the 1982 World Cup winning squad and captain of the finalist side in 1994. His top speed of 29.6 km/h and 10.8 km per game reflect a sweeper-libero of remarkable athleticism for a defender. He kept 306 clean sheets across his career. He scored 33 goals and provided 12 assists — extraordinary for a centre-back. He was the organiser of Arrigo Sacchi's defensive unit that won 2 consecutive European Cups (1989, 1990). He was named in the UEFA's Golden Jubilee Poll as one of the 50 greatest European players of the past 50 years. He won 24 major trophies — the most by any AC Milan player. Milan retired his number 6 shirt upon his retirement in 1997. He combined the roles of sweeper and ball-playing central defender in a way that redefined the position for a generation.
Being AC Milan's greatest ever player and captain for 15 years
How They Played
Elegant sweeper with exceptional reading of the game, precise passing, and leadership qualities
Lasting Impact
Considered one of the greatest defenders of all time, revolutionized the sweeper role and epitomized loyalty in football
Career Honours
- Champions League 1989, 1990, 1994
- Serie A 6x
- Coppa Italia 1x
- Intercontinental Cup 1989, 1990
- FIFA World Cup 1982 (squad member)
- World Cup finalist 1994
- Ballon d'Or runner-up 1989
- UEFA Player of the Year 1989
- Serie A Defender of the Year 1990, 1993
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC Milan | 1977–1997 | 719 | 5 | #6 |
 Italy | — | 81 | 1 | — |
Italian Athletes