Tito Vilanova has thanked Barcelona for all their support, as he steps down as manager after suffering a relapse of throat cancer.
The news was confirmed on Friday and in an open letter published on the club’s official website, he spoke out on the circumstances surrounding his exit.
“After five wonderful years as part of a team that has made dreams come true for any coach, it’s time to face a change in my professional life and focus my energy on continuing to fight the disease I was diagnosed with a year and a half ago,” he said.
“The doctors recommend that, with the treatments that I must follow from now on, I cannot devote 100 per cent to the tasks of head coach as required by FC Barcelona. But I will continue to work closely for the club that I love on other sporting tasks.
“It is not easy to leave this very special group of players, fellow staff and friends with whom I shared many memorable experiences. I’ll be eternally grateful for everything you have given me and the affection you have shown.”
Vilanova was promoted from Pep Guardiola’s assistant to head coach at the start of last season, after the latter resigned, but was diagnosed with cancer in December, which saw him miss several months of the 2012/2013 season.
“I also want to especially thank the president (Sandro Rosell), the board and all the sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta for the confidence they put in me and, above all, the unconditional support, both sporting and personal,” Vilanova wrote.
“Equally important to me is the support I receive – both medical and humane – from Dr Ramon Canal and his team of doctors who are on my side. I do not play this game alone, but as part of a supportive club that will help me succeed in this long process, as it has done until now.
“To all of you, members and fans of the club, I also want to thank you wholeheartedly for the support and affection that you have shown – not just now but over the last few months. I can tell you I’m calm, strong and that I start this new stage in my recovery with full confidence that all will be well.”
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