Inter legend Zenga defends Baresi after mural vandalism: ‘Franco is untouchable’

ROME, ITALY - JULY 23: Cagliari Calcio head coach Walter Zenga looks on during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on July 23, 2020 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Walter Zenga has condemned the vandalism of Franco Baresi’s mural outside Casa Milan, arguing the act dishonours the Italian game rather than just one club.

Writing on Instagram alongside Gazzetta dello Sport’s report, the former Inter goalkeeper said: “Franco Baresi was an opponent, a team-mate for the national side, a captain and above all a man who gave dignity to Italian football.”

Zenga: ‘Shirts divide, respect must unite us’

“Defacing his image doesn’t only offend Milan or their fans,” he continued. “It offends the history of our football and everyone who still knows what the word respect means. Whoever did this represents no set of supporters. They represent only themselves and their own wretchedness. Shirts divide. Respect must unite us. Always. Franco is untouchable.”

The mural, by the artist Lucas.streetart, was created after Baresi’s death on 31 July at the age of 66. Red paint was sprayed across his face on Sunday evening, also covering the shirt sponsor, the artist’s signature and the words “You’ll never walk alone”.

Milan have acted quickly and hope CCTV in the area will help identify those responsible. The image was first circulated by Milan city councillor Alessandro Giungi.

It follows another incident involving the memory of a departed great, with Sandro Mazzola’s tribute disrespected during Juventus vs Atalanta before the international break, a run of events that has prompted wider soul-searching about conduct in Italian stadiums.