Barcelona confirms Vilanova’s exit, replacement to be named next week

Barcelona this evening confirmed that Tito Vilanova, has stepped down as coach of the club.

The 44-year-old has suffered a relapse of his cancer and requires medical attention. President of the La Liga side, Sandro Rosell, made this news official at a press conference, with some of the players present.

“Today we are before you to give you news that I would never have wanted to give,” Rosell said. “After evaluating the follow-up exams of Tito, the option to continue his treatment will be incompatible with his development as coach beginning right now.

“I would like to ask all media, in his name and that of his family, to show respect for them beginning today.”

Rosell also said that a new manager will be announced next while, while the club’s friendly match against Lechia Gdansk has been cancelled.

“Over the next few days, we will be presenting a new coach, probably at the beginning of next week. We have met with all the players, with the captains and the veterans and we have decided not to play in Poland tomorrow.

“We have also decided that life goes on. This is a tough break for Barca but we have had many and we always come through. So, I will ask all of you for your understanding.”

Vilanova spent just one season in change of the Catalan club and won the Spanish league title, with a record-tying 100 points.

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