Italian football legend Franco Baresi dies at 66

AC Milan announced the death of Italian football legend Franco Baresi on Friday. The former central defender, aged 66, was a lifelong player for the Milanese club, appearing in over 500 matches during his distinguished career.

"It is incredibly difficult to announce a loss when he was the embodiment of AC Milan. Every club member and 'milanista' must live on in Baresi's memory," the club stated, reflecting the deep impact Baresi had on the team and its supporters.

Baresi was also a significant figure for the Italian national team, playing a crucial role in their campaigns. His performance at the 1990 World Cup earned him a place in the tournament's All-Star team, highlighting his international standing.

Italian media had initially reported Baresi's death on Wednesday evening, but AC Milan released a clarifying statement at the time. Baresi had undergone surgery last August to remove a nodule from his lungs. He was last seen publicly at the closing ceremony of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, held symbolically at AC Milan's home stadium, San Siro.