Milan’s Tribute: Cardinale, Pulisic and Gimenez to Represent Rossoneri at Baresi’s Funeral

FolioPitch.com – 01 August 2026 | The football world is still coming to terms with the passing of Franco Baresi, and the details of his farewell are now taking shape. According to reports, the plan for GdS Cardinale Pulisic and Gimenez to represent Milan at Baresi s funeral has been confirmed, even as the squad remains stranded on the other side of the globe. Baresi, who passed away on Friday morning at the age of 66, will be laid to rest on Tuesday at the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio in Milan. The ceremony is expected to draw a massive crowd, reflecting the immense respect and love for the legendary defender.

The AC Milan squad, however, will be absent from the funeral. The team is currently in Australia preparing for a friendly match against Inter, scheduled for the very same Tuesday. The idea of cancelling the pre-season tour was quickly dismissed, as many tickets had already been sold and the logistics would have been nearly impossible to untangle. Similarly, flying back to Milan just for the funeral and then returning to Australia was considered a time crunch that would have disrupted preparations. As a result, the club decided to send a smaller delegation to represent the Rossoneri at the ceremony.

That delegation will be led by Gerry Cardinale, the club’s owner, who is expected to attend without question. Alongside him, two current players — Christian Pulisic and Santiago Gimenez — are set to be present as well. Both players are currently recovering from injuries at Milanello, which allows them the flexibility to attend the funeral. While their participation has not been fully confirmed, it is highly likely that they will be there to pay their respects. This news, summarized by the phrase GdS Cardinale Pulisic and Gimenez to represent Milan at Baresi s funeral, has been widely shared and discussed by fans and pundits alike.

The absence of the full squad is unfortunate, but the club has made it clear that the decision was not made lightly. Franco Baresi is arguably the greatest defender in Milan’s history, a one-club man who defined an era of dominance. He captained the Rossoneri to numerous Serie A titles and European Cups, becoming a symbol of loyalty and excellence. His influence extended beyond the pitch, as he later served in various roles at the club, including as a youth coach and ambassador. The news of his death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from around the football community, with former teammates, rivals, and fans all expressing their condolences.

For many, the funeral on Tuesday will be a moment of collective mourning and celebration of Baresi’s life. The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, one of Milan’s most historic churches, is expected to be filled with dignitaries, former players, and ordinary supporters who want to say their final goodbye. The presence of the club’s owner and two of its players, as indicated by the headline GdS Cardinale Pulisic and Gimenez to represent Milan at Baresi s funeral, ensures that the club’s official family will be represented even in the squad’s absence.

Christian Pulisic, who has been a key figure for Milan since his arrival, has been sidelined with an injury but is determined to be part of this important occasion. Santiago Gimenez, the Mexican striker who joined the club recently, is also recovering from a minor issue. Both players have expressed their desire to honor Baresi, recognizing his monumental legacy. Their presence at the funeral will be a sign of respect from the current generation to the legends who built the club’s identity.

The decision to have Cardinale attend is also noteworthy. As the owner, his participation underscores the significance of Baresi’s passing to the club’s hierarchy. Cardinale has often spoken about the importance of Milan’s history and traditions, and his presence at the funeral is a clear indication of that commitment. Alongside the delegation, many former Milan players and club legends are expected to attend, further highlighting the deep connections Baresi had with everyone at the club.

While the squad will be on the pitch in Australia, the friendly match against Inter will undoubtedly carry a somber tone. The players will likely wear black armbands, and a minute of silence may be observed to honor the memory of the iconic defender. The match itself is part of the club’s pre-season preparations, but it will be overshadowed by the tragic loss of one of Milan’s greatest ever icons.

In conclusion, the funeral of Franco Baresi on Tuesday will be a deeply emotional event for everyone connected to AC Milan. Even though the full squad cannot be present, the confirmation of the GdS Cardinale Pulisic and Gimenez to represent Milan at Baresi s funeral ensures that the club will be properly represented. Baresi’s legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and in the history of the club, and this final tribute is a fitting way to celebrate a truly legendary career. Rest in peace, Franco Baresi.