By Chris Wright
Barcelona are in mourning tonight after the sad, sad, shitty news that former coach Tito Vilanova has passed away at the painfully young age of 45.
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
Vilanova, a popular figure and long-time servant of Barca who took over first-team duties following the departure of Pep Guardiola, had a tumour removed from his throat in November 2011 before suffering a relapse in December 2012.
He then underwent surgery in New York that same month, spending several weeks undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy before receiving the ‘all clear’ and returning to see Barca win the La Liga title in his only season in charge.
However, news spread yesterday that Vilanova had suffered a sudden relapse and had been rushed to hospital to receive emergency treatment.
He passed away earlier this evening.
RIP Tito Vilanova, 1968-2014