Former Aberdeen and Dundee midfielder Patrizio Billio has died at the age of 48.
The news was announced by the player's former club AC Milan, where he featured as a youth prospect before returning to the Italian side as a coach after he retired.
Billio played for clubs across Europe and was on the books of Premier League team Crystal Palace.
He joined Dundee in 1999 and stayed until 2002. He left after falling out with then-Dens Park boss Ivano Bonetti.
The midfielder then joined Aberdeen, where he would go on to make 10 appearances for the Dons before returning to his homeland.
Billio played for six more clubs in Italy before retiring in 2010.
A statement from AC Milan read: "Yesterday, Patrizio Billio left us prematurely, who grew up in our youth sector and has been the coach of our football school in Kuwait since 2011.
"The entire Rossoneri family clings to the pain of their loved ones. Rest in peace, Patrizio."
Dundee also expressed their condolences by posting on social media: "Everyone at the club is very saddened to hear of the passing of former player Patrizio Billio at the age of 48.
"Our thoughts are with Patrizio’s family and friends at this sad time.
"We will hold a minute silence tonight ahead of our match."
Billio had been working at AC Milan's academy in Kuwait at the time of his death, and the school wrote on Instagram: "It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our head coach Patrizio Billio on Monday 23rd of January, 2023.
"Over the past 10 years, Mr Billio has done a remarkable job in elevating the training standards at the AC Milan Academy in Kuwait.
"You will always be remembered. Our heartfelt condolences go to Mr Billio’s family."
