AC Milan fans invaded and crowded into the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio for the funeral of Franco Baresi, AC Milan's legendary captain .

Already hours before the funeral began, hundreds of people had gathered, with the red and black flag with the number 6 – the one that has always dominated the Curva Sud – waving amid applause and chants from the fans: “There is only one captain.” Now there are thousands of them.

A standing ovation greeted the arrival of Paolo Maldini and Marco Van Basten, along with Mauro Tassotti, Pietro Paolo Virdis, Giovanni Galli, and Daniele Massaro . Dozens of former AC Milan players were present, including Alberico Evani, Filippo Galli, Angelo Colombo, and Marco Simone. Coach Nevio Scala was also present, as was Riccardo Montolivo, a former AC Milan player who never played under Baresi.

A large banner was displayed by the Milan Curva Sud in the building in front of the basilica: "Immortal legend, inimitable flag that will never stop waving. Goodbye Captain."

Among those in attendance was AC Milan's new CEO Massimo Calvelli, but there was no shortage of controversy over the team's absence, as they were on tour in Australia . So much so that deafening boos were heard upon the arrival of the owner and president, Gerry Cardinale and Paolo Scaroni . This was not only due to the team's failure to return to Milan, but also due to the disappointing results of recent years: some fans chanted "go away," and there were numerous boos directed at the management. There were also boos directed at Mayor Beppe Sala .

"This is a legacy we will be able to continue because Franco Baresi left us all his legacy, always striving to combine class and style with the simplicity of his demeanor. His belonging to the AC Milan family, as well as to football in general, is the reason why he is loved by everyone, not just AC Milan fans," said Minister of Sport Andrea Abodi at the entrance to the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio.

(Unioneonline)

© Riproduzione riservata