FORMER World Cup star Jorge Bolano has tragically passed away aged 47.
It is reported the ex-midfielder died of a heart attack after celebrating a family birthday in Cucuta, Colombia.
He was rushed to a nearby clinic but doctors were unable to save his life.
Players and fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to Bolano following the news of his death.
The Colombian’s former Parma team-mate Gianluigi Buffon said: “Jorge was an unforgettable friend and team-mate, a constant in a locker room of extraordinary champions.
“We played and won together in the golden years of a great Parma.
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“On the pitch he fought without sparing himself and, off the pitch, I fondly remember his kindness and humanity that made him an example for everyone.
“We will always carry you with us, rest in peace, my friend.”
Bolano kicked off his playing career with Colombian side Atletico Junior in 1993 and spent six years in Atlantico before moving to Italy.
There, he joined Buffon in playing for Parma and won the Italian Cup during the 2001/02 season.
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The midfielder enjoyed loan spells with Sampdoria and Lecce before joining Modena in 2007.
He then returned back to his home country in 2010 with Cucuta Deportivo, where he spent the final two years of his career before retiring.
Bolano also made 34 appearances for the Colombia national team, scoring once.
He appeared for the nation at the 1998 World Cup in France.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
