Former Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova dies aged 45.

Former Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova, who has died at the age of just 45 following a long battle with cancer. Barcelona released a statement to say the club was in “intense mourning” following the death of the coach who led them to the La Liga title less than 12 months ago. Continue..

Mourinho had several run-ins with Vilanova during his time in charge of Real Madrid, infamously poking him in the eye on the touchline during a fractious El Clásico clash between the two clubs back in 2012.

But the Portuguese responded to news of his death on Chelsea’s official Twitter feed by expressing his sadness at the news he had been unable to recover from throat cancer.

“Tito Vilanova's passing is a sad day for football, for Barcelona and most importantly for his family and friends,” said Mourinho. “On behalf of everybody at Chelsea Football Club I send my deepest condolences at this most difficult time."..May his soul rest in peace.