Gianni Rivera, the legendary AC Milan striker, spoke about Franco Baresi in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. Their friendship and his rise to stardom are a special part of Milan history. In 1979, they won the Scudetto together, a title that would be the start of a long and successful career for Baresi. This was also the year Baresi made his debut at Milan, earning 12 million lire.

Rivera, who was already an established player at the time, was quick to advocate for Baresi when he came through the ranks. He had no doubt that Baresi was destined for great things. According to Rivera, it was clear from the start that Baresi was a real talent and that he would go a long way.

Baresi went on to become a key player for the team, and Rivera even proposed a Scudetto bonus for him: 50 million. Rivera also lifted the European Cup in Madrid, while Baresi would later lift it in Barcelona 20 years later. Rivera believes that Baresi was the greatest defender of his time.

The two players formed a close bond, with Rivera even christening Baresi with the nickname 'Piscinin' in Verona. Rivera was impressed by Baresi's calm and confident demeanor on the pitch, and he had no doubt that he would become the libero of the future. Baresi's rise to stardom was a key part of AC Milan's success during the 1970s.