Tito Vilanova dies aged 45 years

Former Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has died at the age of 45 years after a long battle with cancer.

Vilanova had a tumour removed from his throat in November 2011 before suffering a relapse in December 2012. He stepped down as Barcelona coach in July 2013 to continue his treatment, with Gerardo Martino taking his place.

Vilanova had surgery in December 2012 and spent 10 weeks in New York having chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but he returned in March 2013 to see his Barcelona side take the Spanish title in his sole season in charge. Barcelona won La Liga with a league record of 100 points from a possible 114, equalling the total achieved by Real Madrid in 2011-12.

In addition, his side set a new scoring record of 115 goals in 38 matches. His overall La Liga record stands at 32 wins, four draws and two defeats.

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