Matteo Gabbia’s Emotional Tribute: Franco Baresi’s Legacy Lives On in Milan’s DNA

FolioPitch.com – 02 August 2026 | In a heartfelt moment that underscored the deep bond between AC Milan‘s past and present, Matteo Gabbia remembered Franco Baresi and what he meant for Milan players, carrying with us the lessons of a true icon. Speaking to Sky Italia by a mural dedicated to Baresi and Ruud Gullit in downtown Perth, the Rossoneri defender expressed the collective sorrow of a squad unable to attend the legendary captain’s funeral, while vowing to keep his spirit alive. The phrase ‘Gabbia remembers Baresi and what he meant for Milan players Carry with us’ resonates profoundly as the team prepares to honor one of football’s greatest defenders.

Baresi, who passed away on Friday morning after a prolonged illness, will be laid to rest on Tuesday. However, Milan’s pre-season tour in Australia means the entire squad, coaching staff, and club officials cannot be present at the funeral. Instead, Gabbia and head coach Ruben Amorim visited the mural in Perth, laying a bouquet of flowers as a symbol of their respect. The club has also announced plans to pay tribute to Baresi before and during the Milan-Inter match on Wednesday, ensuring that his memory is honored on the pitch where he once reigned.

Gabbia’s words were filled with emotion as he described the profound impact Baresi had on him and his teammates. “It’s a duty, not only for the man but also for the great footballer and champion that was captain Franco Baresi,” said Gabbia. “It’s a duty for all AC Milan fans and for all sports enthusiasts. As a team, as a coaching staff, and as a group, we extend our condolences to Franco’s family, wife, and children, and we send our heartfelt embraces. It’s a great shame that we cannot attend the funeral, but we are absolutely with the family and we stand with them.”

When asked about his personal memories of Baresi, Gabbia highlighted the invaluable lessons imparted by the legendary center-back. “I’ll take with me the shared moments and the fortune of having known an icon, a unique person who, right up until the last second, made us understand how important this club is and how much effort we must put in to deserve it every day,” he reflected. “We were lucky enough to know him, and he taught us these things, even with small gestures. These are the things we must keep in our hearts and carry with us always.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates why Gabbia remembers Baresi and what he meant for Milan players, carrying with us the essence of Rossoneri pride.

Sharing a specific episode, Gabbia revealed a touching story that illustrated Baresi’s unwavering dedication even during his final days. “I recently had the chance to speak with a lady who works at Casa Milan and who had a relationship with him,” Gabbia recounted. “She told me that even though he wasn’t well, he truly wanted and felt the need to be close to us, to get to know the coach and the new staff. He wanted to come and wish us a good season. We’re disappointed that it wasn’t possible, but he made me understand that after everything he’s done and everything he’s given for this club, he still had that desire to be involved.”

For Gabbia, this revelation was a powerful reminder of Baresi’s enduring passion. “We really need to understand how much he cares about these colours: being able to give even half of what he gave for this jersey would be a success for everyone,” he stated. This deep admiration is a testament to Baresi’s legacy, one that continues to inspire every player who pulls on the red and black shirt. As Milan navigate this period of mourning, the squad is determined to channel that inspiration into their performances, ensuring that Gabbia remembers Baresi and what he meant for Milan players, carrying with us his fighting spirit on every pitch.

Franco Baresi is universally regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the history of football. Spending his entire career at AC Milan, he won numerous trophies, including multiple Serie A titles and European Cups, and became synonymous with the club’s celebrated defensive traditions. His leadership as captain and his loyalty to the Rossoneri set a benchmark for generations. For the current squad, many of whom grew up idolizing Baresi, his passing marks the end of an era, but also a renewed commitment to uphold the values he embodied.

The tribute in Perth was a poignant gesture, but the team’s dedication extends beyond that. Plans are already in place for a minute of silence and a special on-field ceremony during the Milan-Inter derby on Wednesday. This will provide players and fans alike an opportunity to say goodbye and celebrate the life of a man who gave everything to the club. Gabbia’s words serve as a rallying cry for the entire Milan family: to carry Baresi’s legacy in their hearts, to honor his memory by giving their all on the pitch, and to never forget that being part of Milan means more than just playing football—it means embracing a rich history of excellence and sacrifice.

As the Rossoneri continue their pre-season preparations in Australia, the weight of Baresi’s absence is palpable, but so is the determination to honor him. Gabbia, speaking for the entire squad, made it clear that they will carry the lessons of their legendary captain with them always. In a season that promises to be challenging, the memory of Franco Baresi will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration. For the fans, the players, and everyone connected to the club, the message is simple yet profound: Gabbia remembers Baresi and what he meant for Milan players, carrying with us the eternal flame of a true champion.