Many figures and clubs within the world of football have paid tribute to former Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova, who has died at the age of 45.
The Catalan giants confirmed on Friday afternoon that Pep Guardiola's successor had lost his battle with throat cancer.
Vilanova guided Barcelona to La Liga glory after taking over from Guardiola, but was replaced by Tata Martino last summer due to his illness, with which he was diagnosed in November 2011.
Upon hearing the news, many figures within football paid their respects on Twitter, a selection of which can be found below:
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
"We send our prayers and thoughts to the family of Tito Vilanova. He will be remembered as a fighter and a hero"
Athletic Bilbao
"DEP Tito Vilanova."
Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata
My heart is heavy after learning of the passing of Tito Vilanova. My thoughts go to his family RIP
— Sergio Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) April 25, 2014
"@FCBarcelona manager Tito Vilanova has died at the age of 45 - #RIPTito :(:(:(:("
Manchester City forward Edin Dzeko
"Tito Vilanova's passing is a sad day for football, for Barcelona and most importantly for his family and friends. On behalf of everybody at Chelsea Football Club I send my deepest condolences at this most difficult time."
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho
"#mufc is saddened to hear that Tito Vilanova has passed away. We extend sincere condolences to his family and our friends at @FCBarcelona."
Manchester United Football Club
"Rest in peace Tito. All my support and strength to his family & friends."
Liverpool striker Luis Suarez
R.I.P. Tito Vilanova.
— Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) April 25, 2014
"#RIPTitoVilanova"
Fiorentina forward Giuseppe Rossi
"RIP tito vilanova my thoughts are with his family."
Manchester City's Samir Nasri
"It's deeply saddening to hear of the passing of Tito Vilanova. My thoughts and sympathies go to his family at this very difficult time."
England manager Roy Hodgson
"DEP Tito Vilanova."
Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso
