Franco Baresi (foto: Getty Images)
AC Milan have dismissed false reports claiming club legend Franco Baresi has died, confirming the former captain is facing health issues but is alive.
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AC Milan have been forced to issue an official statement after false reports claiming club legend Franco Baresi had died spread rapidly across social media and were picked up by several media outlets.
The rumours caused shock throughout Italy, particularly given that the 66-year-old has been dealing with health problems in recent months.
However, Milan moved quickly to deny the reports and appealed for privacy for one of the greatest players in the club's history.
"AC Milan denies the false reports regarding Franco Baresi that began circulating a few minutes ago. Franco is going through a difficult and sensitive period, and the club stands firmly by his side and by his family. We ask everyone to respect their privacy and refrain from spreading completely unfounded information," the club said in an official statement.
Baresi is currently receiving treatment at Humanitas Hospital in Rozzano, on the outskirts of Milan, where he remains under constant medical supervision.
His most recent official public appearance came in February, when he carried the Olympic torch at San Siro ahead of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, alongside former rival and close friend Beppe Bergomi.
Before that, he appeared at the Milan vs Sassuolo match in mid-December after several months away from the public eye.
According to people close to the former defender, Baresi had hoped to visit either the Italian national team or Milan's training centre at Milanello earlier this month, as he has done on many occasions in recent years. However, his health reportedly prevented the visit from taking place.
Baresi is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history and one of the biggest icons ever to wear the Rossoneri shirt.
He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan before retiring in 1997. During his remarkable career, he made 716 appearances, won three European Cups/Champions League titles and lifted six Serie A championships.
Since 2020, Baresi has served as Honorary Vice President of AC Milan, continuing to play an important role in the club, particularly in the development of young players.
While the latest reports about his death are completely false, AC Milan's statement makes it clear that one of the club's greatest legends is currently going through a difficult period, with the club asking supporters and the media to respect his privacy.