Franco Baresi, the legendary AC Milan and Italy defender, has died at the age of 66, the Italian club announced on Friday. Baresi captained AC Milan during the 1980s and 1990s, a period in which the team won three European Cups and six Italian league titles, known as Serie A. He also won the World Cup with Italy and was widely regarded as one of football's finest defenders. The club said it was in tears following the passing of the man who was a symbol of its success for more than a decade. The news was confirmed by the club on Friday, prompting tributes from the football world. Baresi spent his entire club career at AC Milan, becoming one of the most respected figures in the sport. His achievements on the field made him a national hero in Italy, and his reputation as a skilled and committed defender endured long after his retirement.