India, July 31 -- Former AC Milan captain Franco Baresi, one of Italian football's greatest players ever, has died at the age of 66. The legendary's centre-back's passing was mourned by his former club in an emotional statement.

"The entire history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi. His example and integrity will be forever etched into the Club's DNA, just as his iconic number 6 shirt is. The condolences AC Milan extends to Franco Baresi's family at such a difficult time are shared by every Rossonero, who feels this loss as their own."

Baresi was the epitome of a one-club man, amassing 719 appearances across twenty seasons at Milan through relegations and championship victories. He guided the team to three E...