Former coach of Barcelona, Tito Vilanova has passed away at the age of 45, the official website of the Catalan club is reporting.

“The Club wishes to express its most heartfelt sympathy to his family, who are being joined in these moments of mourning by FC Barcelona members and fans all around the world, as well as the rest of the footballing and sporting world,” the club said in a statement.

He had been battling with throat cancer since November 2011, the same ailment that made him resign his appointment as Barcelona coach.

Tito Vilanova was appointed manager of the Spanish side at the end of the 2011 - 2012 campaign after Pep Guardiola stepped down.

Photo Credit : fcbarcelona.com