After a long battle with throat cancer, former Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova died on Friday.
Vilanova replaced current Bayern Munich manager Pep Guardiola, and was first diagnosed in November of 2011. He was re-diagnosed in December of 2012 and underwent surgery that included six weeks of chemotherapy before stepping down in July 2013.
Before stepping down, Vilanova said, “The doctors recommend that, with the treatments that I must follow from now on, I cannot devote 100 percent to the tasks of head coach as required by FC Barcelona. But I will continue to work closely for the club that I love on other sporting tasks.” Gerardo Martino took over for Vilanova.
Barcelona tweeted the news earlier today and Barcelona President Josep Maria Bartomeu said in a statement, “Tito Vilanova, a human role model and a football icon. Thanks for everything you have taught us. Rest in peace.”
The FC Barcelona is in immense mourning. Tito Vilanova has died at the age of 45. May he rest in peace
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 25, 2014
Players and coaches from all over the world chimed in to pay their respects:
Jose Mourinho: 'Tito Vilanova’s passing is a sad day for football, for Barcelona and most importantly for his family and friends...' #CFC
— Chelsea FC (@chelseafc) April 25, 2014
Jose Mourinho: '....On behalf of everybody at Chelsea Football Club I send my deepest condolences at this most difficult time.' #CFC
— Chelsea FC (@chelseafc) April 25, 2014
Descansa en paz Tito. Todo mi apoyo y fuerza a su familia y amigos. Rest in peace Tito. All my support and strenght to his family & friends
— Luis Suarez (@luis16suarez) April 25, 2014
A very sad day, Tito Vilanova has left us but his fighting remains as an example. RIP great hug to all his family
— David De Gea (@D_DeGea) April 25, 2014
Flags waived at half mast at Camp Nou today. Vilanova is survived by Montse Chaure, and two children, one of which is in Barcelona’s youth academy.
