AC Milan has been forced to issue an official denial after false reports on social media claimed that club legend and honorary vice-president Franco Baresi had passed away. The Rossoneri acted swiftly on Wednesday night, July 29, to shut down the baseless rumors that began circulating rapidly across multiple platforms.
Club Statement on Baresi's Condition
The Italian giants released a formal statement expressing frustration at the speed with which the unfounded information spread, causing unnecessary distress among fans and those close to the former captain. The club made it clear that the reports had no basis in reality and urged an immediate end to the speculation.
"AC Milan denies the false reports concerning Franco Baresi that have begun circulating in recent minutes. Franco is going through a difficult and delicate time, and the Club stands firmly alongside him and his family. We urge everyone to respect their privacy and refrain from spreading entirely unfounded information," the statement read.
Health Challenges and Background
Baresi has been facing significant health challenges over the past year. In August 2025, the 1982 World Cup winner revealed that he had undergone surgery to remove a pulmonary nodule. Following that procedure, he commenced a course of immunotherapy, a treatment he has been undergoing since. This underlying health condition likely contributed to the traction the false rumors gained on social media, as many users mistakenly believed the reports were true.
Baresi's Legendary Career
Regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Baresi is the ultimate icon of AC Milan. A true one-club man, he rose through the club's youth ranks and spent his entire 20-year professional career exclusively in the Rossoneri colors from 1977 until his retirement in 1997. During his two decades at the San Siro, Baresi amassed an extraordinary trophy cabinet, making 716 competitive appearances, scoring 33 goals, and providing 24 assists while anchoring one of football's most celebrated defensive lines alongside Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta, and Mauro Tassotti.
His remarkable haul of silverware includes three Champions League titles, six Serie A titles, two Intercontinental Cups, three European Super Cups, and four Supercoppa Italiana trophies. The 66-year-old remains a revered figure at AC Milan, and the club's swift denial of the false death rumors underscores their commitment to protecting his legacy and privacy during his ongoing health battle.
