According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello recalled Baresi as a role model both on and off the field, and deserved to be awarded a posthumous Ballon d'Or.
During the interview, Capello almost teared up, saying, "I almost cried. He should be given a posthumous Ballon d'Or." Capello witnessed almost Franco Baresi's entire career. He emotionally said, "Franco made his debut under Liedholm in 1976 when I was still playing for Milan. From the beginning, he was 'Picinin', the nickname they called him in the youth academy, and that nickname stuck with him."
Even later, when he won trophies as captain of the Rossoneri. Capello said, "Franco was a remarkable young man. He put in a lot of effort to become who he is today. He is a role model for everyone who comes to Milan to play. Seeing how he trained, how he conducted himself, always being present, feeling everything he gave you on and off the field, was crucial for the growth of other players."
He is a symbol of Milan, and his younger brother Beppe played for Inter. Isn't that special?
Capello said, "It's indeed special, but it also motivates them more and keeps them competitive at all times. The two brothers love each other very much, they are both very good, very upright people, it's impossible for them not to love each other, and it's impossible for them not to be liked by others. There's no sign of jealousy between them."
Even if Franco won far more honors than his brother...
Capello said, "He played in a more successful team, but both were excellent and both made it to the national team. I think family happiness is very important, and they were lucky to have such an experience."
From a technical perspective, what was Franco's most outstanding characteristic, something not often seen in current defenders?
Capello said, "He was very fast, had excellent judgment, high tactical intelligence, and an almost unique vision of the game. In terms of defense, he was absolutely the strongest of that era, not just because he played for a great Milan, but because among all players in the world at that time, he was the best."
Do you have any special stories with Franco?
Capello said, "When Sacchi arrived, he initially had some trouble adapting to the new methods, and there were indeed some issues, and Juventus was also pursuing him. I only coached him for a few games. Later, my wife and I met with them at a restaurant and convinced him to stay. I'd say he was a bit hesitant then, but his sense of belonging to Milan ultimately prevailed."
Milan was in Franco's heart, as if the jersey was always on him. He never wanted to lose. If he found the team getting a bit complacent, he would reawaken everyone.
He had a low-key personality and didn't rely much on media exposure. On an international level, was he a bit underestimated?
Capello said, "Yes. Every time someone asks me about the greatest players I've coached, I always mention two people who didn't receive the awards they deserved: Franco Baresi and Paolo Maldini. Where can you find players with such high technical and tactical value? They were so excellent, and it was precisely because of them that Sacchi and Capello had the opportunity to coach such players."
How was Franco's relationship with Berlusconi?
Capello said, "Very good. The president greatly respected a player who could change the game and was crucial in any situation. Franco was low-key and didn't like to talk. He always shared moments of joy with the team. He was always sociable and joked around. Although he seemed a bit introverted to outsiders, I understand."
How did he get along with young players?
Capello said, "He was open to everyone who came after him, but most importantly, his role model effect was key. Now when I hear Gabbia talk about legends like Modric, saying you have to constantly learn from him because he's humble and always eager to learn, I think of Franco. Such champions give you something different. Role models are very important and stay in your mind. You see important players who, even after winning everything, remain humble and never put on airs. They feel they've just done their duty and made the fans happy – that should leave something in your heart. The best thing about Franco was his dedication to making the fans and the Milan family happy. I get goosebumps saying this, but it's true. Part of the history of the great Milan ends here. The secret of that Milan was the example set by those players who won a lot but were never satisfied. Franco was unique. He was proud to wear this jersey and for the fans, and as captain, he conveyed that feeling to everyone. If the team was a bit sleepy, he would wake everyone up. He never wanted to lose, that's my strongest feeling."
In your opinion, what was Franco's most beautiful game?
Capello said, "All of them. He was a captain who could convey fighting spirit and a sense of belonging to the team, the club, and the fans in any situation. He was never happy unless they won."
Will Milan ever have another person like this?
Capello said, "I've already said, we're talking about Ballon d'Or-level individuals here, and such players only appear occasionally. The times are different now, the attitudes are different, unfortunately, it must be said. Perhaps with Franco's personality, he wouldn't be on social media often now. Everything is different today. But I believe he deserves a posthumous international award. Both for the person he was and for his conduct, he deserves it."
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