Former Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova 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.
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 manager was forced to step down in the summer of 2013 after suffering a relapse of the disease.
His team won the title last season but Jordi Roura coached Barcelona for two months when Vilanova travelled to New York for cancer treatment.
The 45-year-old was replaced by Tata Martino last summer.
Vilanova had a tumour removed from his parotid gland in November 2011, being treated by chemotherapy and radio therapy.
He was appointed Barcelona manager at the end of the 2011-12 campaign.
Vilanova’s Blaugrana side equaled the record points total set by Real Madrid the season before, reaching 100.
Credit: BBC and Guardian