MILAN/ZURICH: FIFA president Gianni Infantino led the tributes to Silvio Berlusconi, the former owner of AC Milan, who has died in Milan aged 86.

In a tribute posted on Instagram on Monday, the head of the world football federation said: “In terms of football he had foreseen everything long before the others, and in fact he became the most successful president in the history of (AC Milan).

“Recently, as owner of Monza, he fulfilled another dream, because in dreams size doesn’t matter. They can even be contained within a small town.

“I want to remember him just like that, like the person who – in our beloved sport – dreamed and then transformed those thoughts into reality.”

Other tributes:

AC Milan: “Deeply saddened, AC Milan grieves the passing of the unforgettable Silvio Berlusconi and wishes to reach out to the family, associates, and most cherished friends to share our sympathies.”

Monza: “Forever with us. Adriano Galliani and all AC Monza mourn the loss of Silvio Berlusconi. A void that can never be filled, forever with us. Thank you for everything President.”

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti (ex-Milan player and coach): “Today’s sadness doesn’t erase the happy moments spent together.

“There remains infinite gratitude to the President, but above all to an ironic, loyal, intelligent, sincere man, fundamental for me as a footballer first, and then as a coach. Thank you President.”

FC Internazionale: “He has left an indelible mark on the history of our country. The challenges between Inter and his Milan have made the city of Milan the heart of world football.”

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