MADRID — The Barcelona squad attended a memorial space at the Camp Nou Saturday to pay their respects to former coach Tito Vilanova, who died Friday after a long battle with cancer aged 45. Vilanova was first diagnosed with cancer of the salivary gland over two years ago and forced him to step down as Barcelona boss last July after just one season in charge to continue receiving treatment. “It is a very hard moment,” Barca captain Carles Puyol told Barca TV. “For two and a half years Tito was an example for us all, he fought until the last day, the last moment. He showed great strength and showed a brave face through it all. The players were accompanied by the coaching staff, led by Gerardo Martino, who succeeded Vilanova, club president Josep Maria Bartomeu and sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta. Vilanova's funeral will then take place on Monday evening in Barcelona cathedral at 8:00pm local time (1800GMT). Reactions “He is an eternal human and footballing reference for FC Barcelona,” club president Josep Bartomeu said on Twitter. “Thanks for all that you have taught us. Rest in peace.” “For all that we lived together. I will always remember you my friend. Thanks for the fight. My love and support to your family,” said former Barca and France defender Eric Abidal who now plays for Monaco and also had a fight with cancer during his time at the Nou Camp. “Tito Vilanova's passing is a sad day for football, for Barcelona and most importantly for his family and friends,” said Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, a former assistant coach at the Nou Camp. “On behalf of everybody at Chelsea Football Club I send my deepest condolences at this most difficult time.” “It's a tragedy,” said Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque. “A man of 45 years has left us with half his life ahead of him. I was able to speak to him also when it was known he was ill and he was an approachable person, always ready to help.” “Spanish football is in mourning,” said Jorge Perez, general secretary of the Spanish football federation. “After (former Spain coach) Luis Aragones (died in February) now this tragedy has happened. Our condolences for Barcelona and all his family.” “I'm speechless. You have been and will be always an example. I will never forget you,” said Barcelona and Spain playmaker Andres Iniesta. “Tito Vilanova, one of the best coaches I had in my career. Thanks for everything you gave us,” Barcelona and Spain goalkeeper Victor Valdes. “Thanks for everything Tito. May your soul rest in peace,” said Barcelona and Cameroon midfielder Alex Song. “Lots of support to all of Tito's family and friends. An example of fighting and strength for all of us,” said Real Madrid and Spain defender Sergio Ramos. “I'm saddened by the death of Tito Vilanova who was a great fighter in life and on the pitch. We will miss him,” said Juventus coach Antonio Conte. “Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Tito Vilanova. So talented, so admired, so young,” said former Barca and England striker Gary Lineker. — Agencies
