Sad day for Barcelona as Tito Vilanova dies

It was a sad day for football yesterday and an especially sad one for Barcelona fans as news broke of Tito Vilanova’s passing away. Tito died of the parotid gland cancer that had blighted him since 2011.

The quiet and serene ex manager of the Catalan giants had been in a Barcelona hospital after his condition had considerably worsened. There, he underwent emergency surgery in an attempt to save his life.

The world of sport has been remembering Tito Vilanova

• Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu: “Tito will never be forgotten at FC Barcelona”
• Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho: “It’s a sad day for football”
• Spain manager Vicente Del Bosque: “It’s a tragedy, he still had half his life ahead of him”
• Leo Messi:”I will never forget you Tito. Forever with you. All my love to his family”
• Eric Abidal:”For everything we lived through together, I will always remember you buddy, RIP. Thanks for fighting. My love and support to his family.”
• Víctor Valdés:”Tito Vilanova, one of the best coaches I have ever had in my career. Thanks for everything you gave us! RIP.”
• Tennis star Rafa Nadal:”All my support for his family. It’s a great tragedy. My very best to his wife and children.”
• F1 driver Fernando Alonso:”Sad on days like today. RIP Tito Vilanova. Damn disease.”
• Cyclist Alberto Contador:”My sincere condolences to the Vilanova family. Damn disease! RIP.”
• Ex Real Madrid star Michel:”Farewell, Tito. Damn cancer stopped you short halfway through so many things, but it gave you enough time to be one of the greats.”
• Andrés Iniesta:”I have no words. You have been and will be an example, proud to be part of your life. I’ll never forget you. Much strength for your family! Rest in peace coach. Kisses.”
• Cesc Fàbregas:”I first met you 14 years ago and I can say that there are very few people like you. Thanks for always having faith in me, for helping me to improve and overcome personal and professional obstacles. We will always keep a place for you in our hearts. Rest in peace Tito.”
• Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez: “I want to express my deep sorrow at the death of Tito Vilanova and transmit, on behalf of Real Madrid, our condolences, love and support to his family, to FC Barcelona and most especially to his wife and children.”
• Iker Casillas: “A very sad day for the world of football. RIP Tito Vilanova, an example of strength and courage to all.”