George Weah Honors Former Milan Teammate Baresi: 'Irreplaceable Loss'
George Weah has publicly expressed his sorrow over the death of his former AC Milan colleague, Franco Baresi, at the age of 66, stating, "This unfortunate passing is an irreparable loss."
Baresi passed away on Friday after a prolonged illness. His funeral is scheduled for Tuesday in Milan, with numerous former teammates, colleagues, and fans from his 25-year tenure with the Rossoneri expected to attend.
Tributes for the legendary Baresi have poured in throughout the weekend, and Weah, a former teammate, is among the most recent to share his respects on social media.
Weah, the only African player to have won the Ballon d'Or, played alongside Baresi at San Siro for five years, from 1995 to 2000. Together, they secured the Serie A titles in the 1995-96 and 1998-99 seasons under managers Fabio Capello and Alberto Zaccheroni, respectively.
Weah's Tribute to Baresi
"I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of my former AC Milan teammate and big brother, Franco Baresi, who succumbed to a prolonged illness on July 31," Weah shared in a statement on his official X profile. "Our paths crossed in the late 90s when I first joined the Italian Serie A club."
"His guidance was instrumental in helping me adapt. He was a commanding and central figure in the team's defense, contributing significantly to our numerous championship victories."
"Baresi will be remembered as one of the greatest defenders in history, having dedicated his entire 20-year professional soccer career to AC Milan."
"This unfortunate passing represents an irreparable loss for his family and for AC Milan. I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones and the club.
May they find solace in the Lord during this challenging time."
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