The funeral of Tito Vilanova will take place this evening in Barcelona as tributes continue to flood in from the world of football
Barcelona players, along with members of the Spanish national side, have led the tributes to Tito Vilanova ahead of his funeral this evening.
La Liga teams, including Barcelona and Villarreal players before their game, observed a minute's silence across the weekend. Players including Sergio Busquets, Cesc Fabregas, and Andres Iniesta struggled to hold back the tears.
The Villarreal players wore t-shirts with the message "Tito, per sempre" ("Tito forever") to honour the man that led Barca to the La Liga title last season with a record 100 points before being forced to step down just two weeks before the start of the current campaign due to ill health.
Vilanova had a tumor removed from his throat back in November 2011, before he suffered a relapse in December a year later. He died aged 45 following the two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer of the salivary gland.
Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea took to Twitter to show his repects, as did fellow Spaniard Sergio Ramos.
The Madrid president, Florentino Perez, also paid tribute to Vilanova on behalf of Barcelona's great rivals.
In a statement Perez said: "I want to express my deep sorrow at the death of Tito Vilanova and transmit, on behalf of Real Madrid, our condolences, love and support to his family, to FC Barcelona and most especially his wife and children.
"Today is a day of great sadness for all football fans and recognition of his personal and professional career."
Samir Nasri was another star to take to Twitter:
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho paid his personal respects via the club's official Twitter account saying: "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."
The Catalan club's players and officials, along with thousands of fans, have visited a memorial space at the Nou Camp following his death.
Supporters have also placed memorabilia, flowers and candles in tribute to the former coach at the stadium.
Barcelona have declared three days of mourning for Vilanova, whose funeral will take place this evening in the Spanish city's cathedral.
Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova Gallery
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