The football world is mourning the death of former Juventus and Chelsea star, Gianluca Vialli.
Vialli, who played 59 times for Italy, died aged 58 after battling pancreatic cancer.
He was first diagnosed with the disease in 2017 and then for a second time in 2021, shortly after Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph.
Vialli left his role with the Italian national team in December 2022 to focus on his health.
In a statement, President of Italian Football Federation (FIGC), Gabriele Gravina described the deceased as a “splendid person” who has left a void that would be difficult to fill.
“Gianluca was a splendid person and he leaves a void that cannot be filled.
“I hoped until the end that he would be able to perform another miracle. Yet I am comforted by the certainty that what he did for Italian football and the blue shirt will never be forgotten,” Gravina said.
He disclosed that a minute’s silence in memory of Vialli will be held before all Italian matches this weekend.
Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti took to Facebook to mourn his former teammate.
Sharing a photo of himself and the deceased in happier times, Ancelotti wrote, “Hello my friend. Rest in peace.”
Another Italy legend, Andrea Pirlo, also took to the platform to mourn Vialli.
Sharing a photo of the deceased, Pirlo wrote, “You were an example of courage and dignity, on the field and in life. Bye Luca R.I.P.”
Former AC Milan and Chelsea striker, Andriy Shevchenko, also took to Facebook to mourn the departed.
Sharing a photo of himself and Vialli, the Ukrainian wrote, “A Champion on the field and in life. You’ll always be in our hearts. Rest In Peace my friend.”
Sharing a photo of Vialli’s Sampdoria jersey, legendary Italian goalkeeper, Gianluigi Buffon wrote, “It’s not easy finding words right now.
“You were a giant, on the field and in life.
“You fought to the end with your head held high with unique dignity. This shirt you gave me is priceless and every time I look at it I can’t help but say thank you for everything you’ve done.
“The emptiness you leave is huge.
“Hello Gianluca ❤️”