Emotional Capello Remembers Baresi: ‘A Great Footballer, But Above All, A Great Person’

FolioPitch.com – 01 August 2026 | The football world is mourning the loss of one of its greatest defenders, Franco Baresi, and the tributes have been pouring in from all corners of the globe. Among the most heartfelt is that of his former coach, Fabio Capello, who struggled to hold back tears as he shared his memories. In an emotional interview, Capello gives tearful Baresi tribute: “A great footballer, but above all, a great person.” The words, relayed by MilanNews, capture the essence of a man who was not only a legendary sweeper for AC Milan but also a humble and dedicated leader.

Capello, who took over from Arrigo Sacchi and built one of the most dominant teams in football history, knew Baresi better than most. Together, they achieved extraordinary success, including four Scudetti and a Champions League title, culminating in a memorable 4-0 victory over Barcelona in the 1994 final. But for Capello, Baresi’s impact went far beyond the trophies. “I even have difficulty speaking,” Capello admitted. “He deserves a great tribute. I saw him make his debut when I was still a player and then I was lucky enough to coach him.”

The news of Baresi’s passing has sent shockwaves through the sport, with AC Milan posting a beautiful message honoring their iconic captain. Capello was quick to echo those sentiments, emphasizing the defender’s exemplary character. “Such a talented and important player cannot fail to be remembered in the most beautiful way possible. Milan must embrace him and thank him for what he gave to AC Milan and Italy: for his dedication, his commitment, his commitment. He was an example to everyone. An honest and modest man, virtues difficult to find in someone of his popularity. He was one of those players all coaches would love to have, not only for his technical prowess, but for the strength he transmitted to all his teammates.”

Baresi’s leadership qualities were evident from a young age. He became captain at just 22 years old, receiving the armband from the legendary Gianni Rivera. Capello marveled at this historic moment, noting, “He was very young when he was chosen. It was a historic moment because he received the armband from Rivera. He held it and honoured it for years, doing everything possible to ensure that AC Milan achieved the results they achieved. He was important to everyone for the way he conducted himself; when foreigners arrived, they immediately found a role model in his serious and precise demeanour.”

On the pitch, Baresi was the defensive conductor, orchestrating the backline with remarkable intelligence. Capello explained, “He was the defensive conductor. He could call upon the defenders and midfielders; he was the team’s true director. He made the fans’ fortune, but above all, mine: having a player with that strength and poise is unique.” Baresi’s ability to adapt was also crucial when Capello introduced new tactical movements. “Sacchi had taught him a way of defending, and when I arrived, we changed the movements. Despite that, he adapted immediately. It was important for him not to stick to old ideas but to change according to what the new coach asked, and he was able to convey this to his team-mates as well.”

Capello also highlighted Baresi’s quiet modesty, a rare trait for someone of his stature. “That was the beautiful thing. His modesty despite being so famous. He didn’t put on airs, he didn’t make a show of his popularity. He conveyed serenity to everyone and his desire not to rest on his laurels,” Capello said, his voice breaking with emotion. This humility was paired with an incredible work ethic that inspired everyone around him. “As a man who continued to train hard to achieve results and his goals. He taught us to always improve, and to cultivate a culture of work. Today we lose a great footballer, but above all, a great person.”

The Capello gives tearful Baresi tribute: A great footballer but above all a great person, is a phrase that resonates deeply within the football community. Baresi’s contributions to the Italian national team were equally significant. He played in the 1994 World Cup final despite undergoing meniscus surgery just twenty days earlier, a testament to his extraordinary dedication. Capello recalled, “It’s the memory of a player who had the same desire and determination even when he was playing for the Azzurri. He played in the final after undergoing meniscus surgery twenty days earlier: it’s a record, something unique. For him, the pain didn’t exist; the only thing that mattered was honoring the shirt and being there because he knew his mere presence would give something more. Unfortunately, that penalty went high, and the tears were a demonstration of the great affection he had for the national team.”

As the football world reflects on Baresi’s legacy, the Capello gives tearful Baresi tribute: A great footballer but above all a great person, serves as a poignant reminder of the values that made him a legend. He was not just a defender of immense skill, but a man of integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment. His partnership with Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Costacurta formed a backline that conceded only 15 goals in the entire 1993-94 Serie A campaign, a record that remains a benchmark for defensive excellence.

In conclusion, Franco Baresi’s passing is a profound loss, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched. The Capello gives tearful Baresi tribute: A great footballer but above all a great person, captures the sentiment of an entire generation. Baresi’s legacy is not just etched in silverware but in the hearts of those who had the privilege to witness his greatness. As Capello so eloquently put it, he was an example to all, a true captain, and above all, a wonderful human being. The football world says goodbye to a titan, but his spirit will forever inspire.