Former Barcelona coach Vilanova dies, aged 45

“The FC Barcelona is in immense mourning. Tito Vilanova has died at the age of 45. May he rest in peace,” read a statement released this afternoon.

The ex-Coach and former assistant manager to Pep Guardiola had to give up the Camp Nou job after he was diagnosed with cancer.

Vilanova was at the helm for the successful 2012-13 Liga campaign.

He had been in remission, but during a check-up yesterday tests showed very serious complications and he was rushed into emergency surgery.

This afternoon, Vilanova lost his battle with the disease.