AC Milan confirmed the passing of Franco Baresi, a legendary figure in Italian football, at the age of 66. Baresi spent his entire professional career with the Rossoneri, becoming a symbol of the club's defensive prowess and leadership during his tenure from 1977 to 1997.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders to ever play the game, Baresi was a cornerstone of the AC Milan team that dominated both Italian and European football in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His career included winning three European Cups and six Serie A titles. On the international stage, he was a vital part of the Italy squad, famously captaining the team and earning 81 caps for his country. His influence on the game extended beyond his playing days, as he remained involved with AC Milan in various ambassadorial and administrative roles.

The announcement from the club has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the footballing world, reflecting his status as a titan of the sport. While the club confirmed his death, no specific cause or further details regarding funeral arrangements have been publicly released at this time. The football community continues to mourn the loss of a player whose tactical intelligence and longevity set a benchmark for future generations of defenders.