Liverpool fan, 51, dies in Milan ahead of Champions League game

A Liverpool fan tragically passed away in Italy on Monday night . The Reds are due to face AC Milan at the San Siro in the Champions League on Tuesday, with thousands of supporters making the journey to Italy for the match.

However, a heartbreaking incident has occurred as one fan lost his life ahead of the game. According to Corriera della Sera and other Italian news outlets and reported by the Daily Express , a 51-year-old man died on Monday night after being hit by a vehicle at around 1am.

The unnamed supporter was struck while attempting to cross the A4 motorway near Orio al Serio Airport in Bergamo, having traveled over for the match. The Irishman had arrived at Bergamo airport just hours before the incident, flying in from Manchester.

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He was found with his passport and a ticket for the match in his pocket. It's reported that the man was crossing the road with two other supporters, a father and son, who turned back and left the scene.

It remains unclear whether they were aware of the incident. They could face questioning for failing to provide assistance if identified by Highway Patrol.

"We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our supporter Philip Dooley , following a road traffic accident in Bergamo in the early hours of this morning," a club statement read. "Philip was a lifelong Liverpool fan who had traveled to Italy to be at tonight’s Champions League game against AC Milan.

"Our staff in Milan are working with the local police and consulate, and continue to provide support to other fans impacted by this devastating incident. The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected to the club are with Philip’s family, friends and fellow supporters at this extremely difficult time. Rest in peace, Philip."

Liverpool is looking to win its first match in the new-look Champions League format, where it will play AC Milan , RB Leipzig, Girona and PSV away from home and Bologna, Real Madrid , Bayer Leverkusen and Lille at Anfield.

"Liverpool is a great team," AC Milan boss Paulo Fonseca said during his press conference. "We have to be defensively perfect to win. We can't make mistake or they will score goals.

"It's an opportunity to show our improvements. I'm sure the fans will have an impact on the game. Their support is important for us. We need their love."