By Alex Rogers
Former Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has died of throat cancer, the club announced Friday. He was 45.
“The FC Barcelona is in immense mourning,” the football club’s official account tweeted. “Tito Vilanova has died at the age of 45. May he rest in peace.”
Vilanova was first diagnosed with cancer in 2011. He stepped down from his coaching post last year after leading his team to the top of La Liga to undergo further cancer treatment.
Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu paid his respects to Vilanova on Twitter. “Tito Vilanova was a wonderful person, and will never be forgotten at FC Barcelona. Thank you for everything you taught us. Rest in peace.”
More Must-Reads from TIME
- How the Electoral College Actually Works
- Your Vote Is Safe
- Mel Robbins Will Make You Do It
- Why Vinegar Is So Good for You
- The Surprising Health Benefits of Pain
- You Don’t Have to Dread the End of Daylight Saving
- The 20 Best Halloween TV Episodes of All Time
- Meet TIME's Newest Class of Next Generation Leaders
Contact us at letters@time.com