AC MILAN legend Franco Baresi has undergone surgery on his lungs after being diagnosed with a pulmonary nodulation.
The club revealed in a statement that Baresi, 65, had a successful operation but will need more treatment.
A statement posted on Instagram read: “AC Milan announces that, following routine medical checks, our Honorary Vice President Franco Baresi was found to have a pulmonary nodule.
“It was decided that the best course of action was to remove it with a minimally invasive surgical procedure.
“The operation went well, and his recovery has been free of complications.
” Franco has since been assessed by an oncology specialist, who recommended a consolidative course of immunotherapy.
“The entire Board of Directors, Club Management, employees and staff, the coaching team, and all the men’s and women’s players at AC Milan send Franco their heartfelt wishes for a swift and full recovery.
“Captain, we are all with you!”
Baresi updated fans with a short statement of his own as part of the post.
He said: “Dear fans, I just want to let you know that it will take a little time to get back to full strength.
“Thank you to AC Milan and to all of you for your support. A big hug, with affection.”
Baresi is a legend in Milan having made over 700 appearances for AC Milan as a one-club man.
The defender captained the side for 15 of his 20 years at the San Siro, and helped the club win six league titles and three Champions League’s and European Cups.
He has held the position of honorary vice president at AC Milan since 2020 and was even voted as the ‘Milanista of the Century” by fans during a celebration of the club’s 100th birthday in 1999.
On an international level, Baresi earned 81 caps for the Italian national side.
He was part of the Italian’s World Cup winning side in 1982, as well as captaining the country to the 1994 World Cup final where they heartbreakingly lost to Brazil on penalties.
Fans have sent messages of support to Baresi following the news of his surgery.
One wrote: “Come on Captain, we’re all with you!”
While another added: “Come back soon, Captain!”
And a third posted: “Speedy recovery Franco”.
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