Former Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has died at the age of 45, the club have announced.
Barca said in a statement: "The club expresses their deepest condolences over the passing of Tito Vilanova, who died today in Barcelona at the age of 45."
Vilanova, a former midfielder who spent his playing career largely in the Spanish second division, was diagnosed with cancer of the salivary gland more than two years ago and was forced to step down as Barca boss last July.
He was Pep Guardiola's assistant during a glorious four-year spell for Barcelona between 2008 and 2012 during which the club won 14 trophies.
Vilanova took over from Guardiola at the start of the 2012/13 season, but he had to take four months off between December 2012 and April 2013 for treatment in the United States after a recurrence of the throat cancer which had been first diagnosed in November 2011.
Barca went on to win the Spanish La Liga title, equalling the record points tally of 100, in his only season in charge before he finally resigned because of ill health.
Vilanova, who was admitted to a hospital in Barcelona last week, is survived by his wife, Montse Chaure, and two children. His son Adrian is currently in Barcelona's youth academy.
Barca sent their "deepest condolences" to Vilanova's family and said they would be opening a space in the main grandstand at the Nou Camp for people to express their condolences.
The club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Twitter: "Tito Vilanova was a wonderful person, and will never be forgotten at FC Barcelona. Thank you for everything you taught us. Rest in peace."
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho had several run-ins with Vilanova during his time in charge of Real Madrid, infamously poking him in the eye in one clash.
Mourinho said on Chelsea's Twitter account: "Tito Vilanova's passing is a sad day for football, for Barcelona and most importantly for his family and friends.
"On behalf of everybody at Chelsea Football Club I send my deepest condolences at this most difficult time."
No comments:
Post a Comment