Tito Vilanova, the former Barcelona coach, has died aged 45 after a long battle with cancer.
Vilanova had a tumour removed from his throat in November 2011 before suffering a relapse in December 2012.
However, Vilanova had undergone another emergency surgery on Thursday at Clinica Quiron in Barcelona as gastric complications arose, multiple news outlets in Spain reported. The Catalan coach had dealt with cancer in his parotid gland for more than two years.
As word of Vilanova's worsening health spread on Thursday, a call for courage of "Anims Tito" went out across social media.
It will be recalled that Weeks before the start of this season, Vilanova told players he would not be able to continue at the helm of the team.
He stepped down as Barca boss last July to continue his treatment, with Gerardo Martino taking charge.
"FC Barcelona is in immense mourning. Tito Vilanova has died at the age of 45. May he rest in peace," said a statement from the Spanish club.
"The club wishes to express its most heartfelt sympathy to his family, who are being joined in these moments of mourning by FC Barcelona members and fans all around the world, as well as the rest of the footballing and sporting world.
"The Vilanova family has asked for respect for their desire for the strictest intimacy in the moments after his death."
The club added that a "space for condolence" would be opened in the main grandstand at their Nou Camp stadium on Friday. Vilanova is survived by his wife, Montse Chaure, and two children. His son Adrian is currently in Barcelona's youth academy.
...This is very sad! May His Soul Find Rest. Amen! Our prayers are thoughts are with his family.
RESPECT To TITO VILANOVA!
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