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    Abdelaziz Barrada dead at 35: Former Marseille and Morocco star dies suddenly as tributes pour in

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    ABDELAZIZ BARRADA has sadly died at the age of 35.The ex-Marseille and Morocco star suddenly passed away as it was confirmed by his former club.Abdelaziz Barrada has died at the age of 35Credit: GettyHe played 26 times for MoroccoCredit: GettyMoroccan news outlet Hespress has reported that Barrada suffered a heart attack in the afternoon.The Ligue 1 outfit announced the footballer’s death on social media with a touching tribute.It read: “Rest in peace Abdelaziz.”Olympique de Marseille learned with sadness of the death of its former player and Moroccan international, Abdelaziz Barrada.READ MORE ON SPORT”Arriving in the summer of 2014, the attacking midfielder wore the colours of OM for two seasons.”The club would like to extend its sincere condolences to his family and share in the grief of his loved ones.”Social media was flooded with tributes to Barrada.Morroco star Amine Harit posted: “Abdelaziz Barrada may Allah have mercy on you support his loved ones.”Most read in FootballTributes have flooded in for the star on social mediaCredit: AFPHe scored four goals for MoroccoCredit: GettyA fan wrote: “My deepest condolences.”A second commented: “My condolences to his family and loved ones, 35 is really too young, may he rest in peace.”A third said: “I am shocked to hear of his death! May he rest in peace, a player who will have left his mark on Marseille anyway.”Another added: “It hurts, we didn’t expect it, rest in peace Abdelaziz condolences to the family and loved ones.”Barrada started his professional career in France at Senart-Moissy.He went on to play for Paris Saint-Germain’s B side between 2007 and 2010.The midfielder went on to have spells at Getafe in Spain as well as Marseille, Al-Jazira, Al-Nasr, Antalyaspor, Al Shahania and Lusitanos Saint-Maur.During his two-year spell at Marseille, he made 33 league appearances and scored two goals.He played alongside the likes of Michy Batshuayi, Steven Fletcher, Brice Samba and Lassana Diarra.READ MORE SUN STORIESBarrada also starred for the Morrocan national side as he earned 26 caps between 2012 and 2015.He scored four goals for the side, including a strike against Gambia in a 2014 World Cup qualifier. More

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      Man Utd fans injured after ‘being ambushed by 50 Fenerbahce ultras in Istanbul’ ahead of Europa League clash

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans were attacked by so-called Fenerbahce ultras ahead of the Europa League clash tonight.As many as 50 Fenerbahce fans are said to have “swarmed” a group of United fans who had travelled to Istanbul for the match.Man Utd fans appear to have been attacked in Istanbul before their match with FenerbahceCredit: X/BogazHooligansFootage shared by a Fenerbahce ultra account boasted about the attacksCredit: X/BogazHooligansWitnesses have said multiple fans have been left injuredCredit: X/BogazHooligansFootage shared on social media showed an attack taking place outside of the Grand Hisar Hotel.The videos showed footage of ultras charging and assaulting fans, leaving several injured.A self-professed “anarchist” account on X by the name of GFB Bogaz Hooligans boasted about the footage after posting it online.The account shared a 26-second video of the attacks with the caption: “This is İSTANBUL!”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAn ominous post on their Instagram page showed an apparent group of hooligans on bikes.It was captioned: “On the first punch of a fight… Manchester is now truly RED :).”One Red Devils fan who was caught up in the attacks told StrettyNews how five fans were “swarmed” by a violent mob.They said: “About 50 of them swarmed us.Most read in Football”One lad followed me down a street and pretended to help before hitting me a shot into the jaw.”They added that two members of their group were left injured by glasses and a crowbar.Erik ten Hag in confident mood as Man Utd target rare European victory A separate incident is said to have involved 20 Fenerbahce fans descending upon a smaller group of United fans.The Fenerbahce ultra account posted a screenshot of an apparent online conversation between them and a so-called United fan.They said: “A response has been given to the traitors who insulted our religious and national values ​​and gave us a position.”The pictures detailed how an offensive message was sent to start the exchange before messages of “see you soon”, and “let’s go” were sent before sending the location as the Celtic Irish Pub in Istanbul.The pub is approximately an 11-minute walk from where one of the attacks took place.SunSport were unable to track down a social media account with the details shared in the screenshot, meaning the message could have been fabricated or the original account was changed or deleted.Manchester United have been approached for comment.READ MORE SUN STORIESViolence has unfortunately become commonplace in football in Turkey, with Fenerbahce’s chairman attacked by a pitch invader and pelted with bottles earlier this season.United face former boss Jose Mourinho tonight as they look for their first win in this season’s Europa League, with the Portuguese gaffer his normal bullish self ahead of the game.Jose Mourinho will take on his old side tonight More

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      Bloodied Zlatan Ibrahimovic shows off gruesome head injury but Andy Carroll tells him ‘I’ve had worse from the missus’

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      ANDY CARROLL gave a hilarious response to Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s post showing off a bloody injury.The Swedish legend posted a picture of his scalp, which had suffered a nasty cut.Zlatan Ibrahimovic showed off a gruesome injury on InstagramCredit: Instagram @iamzlatanibrahimovicAndy Carroll had a hilarious responseCredit: AFPIbrahimovic, 43, shared the snaps on social media with the caption “part of the game”.He also added a trigger warning for people who may be squeamish to gore.Plenty of his 64.3million followers share their sympathy for the former AC Milan and Manchester United star.However, Andy Carroll also joined in the many comments as he gave a funny response.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe joked: “Grow up, I’ve had worse from the missus.”Fans found the joke funny as they commented on Carroll’s post.One wrote: “The legend has spoken.”A second commented: “Lotta time for that comment.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third said: “Big Andy’s not messing.”Another added: “Hahaha amazing.”Watch Andy Carroll score twice in a ‘PARK’ and celebrate wildly as he tears up fourth tier of French football Ibrahimovic retired from football in 2023Credit: GettyIbrahimovic retired from professional football in 2023 after his second stint at AC Milan.Carroll, 35, however, is still playing and, in the summer, joined French fourth-division side Bordeaux.The striker has already become a cult hero at the club, having dropped down to help the club climb back up the divisions.He was recently spotted in Mallorca on holiday with his new girlfriend Lou Teasdale.He was previously married to Billy Mucklow, but their 11-year relationship came to an end earlier this year.Carroll starred for the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool and West Ham before he left England in 2023 for France.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Boxing fans spot Daniel Dubois’ funny social media gaffe as they compare it to ex-Premier League star’s iconic tweet

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      BOXING fans spotted Daniel Dubois’ funny social media gaffe – and it immediately drew comparisons to an ex-Premier League star’s iconic tweet.Dubois traded verbal jabs with Anthony Joshua at a press conference just days before their world title fight. Boxing fans spotted Daniel Dubois’ funny social media gaffeAnd he was quick to let fans know the talking is all done now – although that message may not have actually come from him. Dubois posted a picture of himself with the caption: “Here’s a strong and engaging caption for the final press conference post: “The final press conference is done – the talking stops here. Now, it’s time to let the fists do the talking. I’m ready for this fight. Let’s go.” It appears Dubois accidentally forgot to delete the suggestion – but fans were left hailing him despite the blunder.READ MORE IN BOXINGOne said: “I think Daniel is secretly a stand up comedian and he’s got us all on toast!”Another added: “This could be an accident or it could be deliberate: either way it is very, very funny.” One said: “I now like him more.” ANTHONY JOSHUA VS DANIEL DUBOIS: All the information you need ahead of huge world title fight at WembleyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother referenced Victor Anichebe’s infamous 2016 tweet. Most read in BoxingThe former Sunderland striker posted online: “Can you tweet something like: ‘Unbelievable support yesterday and great effort by the lads! Hard result to take! But we go again!'”Dubois also had those in attendance at the press conference in laughter after an awkward exchange with Joshua. Both were probed on their heated clash two months ago when AJ threatened to wrap a chair around Dubois’ face. Joshua, 34, explained: “He said, ‘Let’s go now.’ I clicked for a minute, I said, ‘What does he mean by that?’ “And then he repeated it again. And I just feel like anyone in here…” Dubois, 27, interrupted and said: “It’s boxing. This is what happens this is boxing. These things happen so we’re fighting Saturday. Let’s go.” Joshua, drawing a laugh from the crowd, continued: “So as I was saying.Joshua vs Dubois fight predictions THIS weekend Wembley will witness one of the biggest all-British fights of all-time.But who will emerge victorious under the famous arch? Some of the biggest names in boxing have been having their say…Oleksandr Usyk: “My favourite is Anthony Joshua but I am very bad at predictions. But I will predict Anthony Joshua.”Dillian Whyte: “I just think that it’s one of those fights where it is a genuine 50/50 fight in my opinion.”Joe Joyce: “I was initially edging with Joshua but I don’t know, Dubois is coming on.”Frazer Clarke: “As heavy-handed as Dubois is and as good a fighter as he’s becoming, I still have to go for Joshua.”Francis Ngannou: “Even though Joshua lost against Usyk twice and Dubois fought Usyk and almost knocked him down and almost won, I would still give this to Joshua.”Click here for more fight predictions for Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois”At the press conference you should never let anyone take an inch because they’ll end up taking a mile. Know what I mean, Dan?” A confused Dubois replied: “Sorry?”Further tension was caused when the infamous sparring session between the pair was brought up.AJ has been forced to deny he was floored by Dubois many years ago but conceded he was shaken by a left hook.Joshua said: “He cracked me with a great shot and it’s my chance to get him back on Saturday.”I’m looking forward to it. We sparred hundreds of rounds, innit?”Dubois said: “It’s sparring. Now we’re fighting, it’s different. Move on now. We can move on now. Move on.”SunSport’s Colin Hart revealed today that AJ WAS knocked out by Dubois.The defending champion has been without head trainer Don Charles, leading to rumours they have sensationally split just days before the bout.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut Dubois and his camp insist Charles is actually ill with the flu and is expected to be in the corner come fight night.Dubois said: “Everything’s good. As long as he’s in my corner on fight night. Everything’s gone well, training camp’s gone brilliant. Let’s go.”AJ vs Dubois: Build up to the big fightANTHONY JOSHUA and Daniel Dubois go head-to-head at Wembley THIS Saturday.Ahead of the all-British heavyweight showdown, here’s all the biggest stories and need-to-know information… More

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      ‘Going to put flowers on his seat’ – First picture of Irish Liverpool fan killed in Milan amid tributes for ‘top lad’

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      THIS is the first picture of an avid Liverpool fan who tragically died in a road accident in Milan, Italy, on Tuesday.Philip Dooley, who lived in Liverpool but was originally from Ireland, was visiting the Italian city when he was struck by an oncoming car while crossing the A4 highway near the airport in Bergamo.Philip was a lifelong Liverpool supporterCredit: SOCIAL MEDIALiverpool players wore a black armband during the match in tribute to the fanCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe 51-year-old fan was trying to cross the highway to reach the NH Hotel, where he was staying around 1am local time.Local media have reported that he had tickets to a Liverpool match in his pocket when he was discovered, after reportedly landing at Orio al Serio airport at 11.53pm on the flight from Manchester.Ahead of their opening Champions League clash vs AC Milan on Tuesday night, the club paid tribute to the Irishman by wearing black armbands.A social media post read: “We will wear black armbands this evening in tribute to supporter Philip Dooley, who tragically lost his life following a road traffic accident in Bergamo in the early hours of the morning.”Tributes have been pouring in for tragic Phillip following his untimely death, with the Merseyside club leading the way.Liverpool FC said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our supporter Philip Dooley, following a road traffic accident in Bergamo in the early hours of this morning.”Philip was a lifelong Liverpool fan who had travelled to Italy to be at tonight’s Champions League game against AC Milan.”Our staff in Milan are working with the local police and consulate, and continue to provide support to other fans impacted by this devastating incident.Most read in Football”The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected to the club are with Philip’s family, friends and fellow supporters at this extremely difficult time.Liverpool icon Ron Yeats passes away”Rest in peace, Philip.”Friends and fellow fans who knew Phillip have also taken to social media to share their condolences, with one telling how they plan to “put some flowers on his seat” at the stadium in tribute. One said: “Top man and massive support to my family. You will be sorely missed. YNWA.”Another said: “Absolutely devastated tragic loss Philip Dooley. Thoughts are with all his family & friends. From Robbie, Paula & everyone at the 12th man YNWA.”Liverpool FC player Jamie Carragher responded to this post by sharing a red heart emoji.Another friend shared: “Phil was a friend of mine, from the row in front of me on the Kop, would see him at aways too and always get a hug off him. “Top lad. Going to put some flowers on his seat on Saturday. RIP Phil.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Irish Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and stands ready to provide consular assistance.A spokesperson added: “As with all consular cases, the department does not comment on the detail of individual cases.” More

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      Erling Haaland in mourning as Man City star shares heartbreaking hospital pic after ‘chief fixer uncle’ dies aged 59

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      ERLING HAALAND has paid a touching social media tribute to his father’s late best friend and his “uncle”, Ivar Eggja.The Haalands are mourning the loss of the 59-year-old father-of-three, who passed away on Wednesday.Erling Haaland is mourning the loss of his dad’s best friend, Ivar EggjaCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDThe Manchester City star paid a touching social media tribute to his “uncle” after rushing to see him in the hospitalCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDThe late Eggja played a big role in Erling’s lifeCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDAnd Erling took to Instagram to publicly pay his respects to the late Eggja, posting a photo of himself holding his hand as he lay in his hospital bed.The heartbroken Manchester City hitman’s accompanying caption read: “You are a legend, Ivar.”Words cannot describe how much you meant to me! Words cannot describe how much you will be missed!”I don’t give a s**t! I don’t give a s**! That’s exactly what I’m going to do.READ MORE ON HAALAND”Thank you for everything, you madman. We will see each other again. “Rest in peace, Ivar.”Eggja – who was the best man at Alf-Inge’s wedding – was more than just a close friend to the Haalands, he was a regular helper of the family.He helped Erling seamlessly transition to life in Dortmund, Salzburg and Manchester by making sure his apartments were fully furnished so he could focus on his football.Most read in FootballThe late Eggja is survived by his two sons – Fabian and Felix – and his daughter Ine, who confirmed his passing on social media.The late Ivar Eggja is the best friend of Erling’s dad, Alf-IngeCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDEggja was the best man at Alf-Inge’s weddingCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDEggja is survived by his three childrenCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDShe wrote on Facebook: “The superhero of our lives has been taken from us.”At 3.30 p.m. we said goodbye to Dad for the last time and it feels a bit like the whole world has been put on ice.How to stop Erling Haaland: Five tactics every Premier League team must use vs Man City”He meant so much to so many people, but to us he was everything.”Haaland’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, also paid tribute to Eggja, saying: “Ever since I met you, I thought your power was to brighten up any room.”I didn’t know it was a superpower, and that you would go through so much, so soon, so fast.”In a way that is the best example of strength, dignity, tolerance and optimism that family and friends can only dream of. More

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      Footballer attacked at home by thugs after appearing in Bayern Munich shirt as police launch probe

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      POLICE are investigating an attack on Nurnberg footballer Niklas-Wilson Sommer.The right-back was attacked in his home and shared images of his wounds on social media.Niklas-Wilson Sommer was attacked in his homeCredit: https://www.instagram.com/niklas.wilson/The attack is thought to be because he wore a Bayern Munich shirtCredit: https://www.instagram.com/niklas.wilson/The incident took place after he shared a picture of himself wearing a Bayern Munich shirt.The image had been deleted from social media and Sommer had already apologised for it.The 26-year-old has been supported by the club, which has condemned the attack.A club statement read: “During the night from Saturday to Sunday, there was a physical attack on one of our U23 players.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”By lying in wait on the doorstep in the early evening and then physically attacking him a few hours later in the night, these people crossed all boundaries.”The act is apparently a reaction to the player appearing in a Bayern jersey on social media three days earlier.”The photo was deleted shortly after publication and the player also publicly apologized.”The club will never accept players being physically attacked.Most read in Football”That is exactly what happened last night through the actions of individuals.”The club condemns this behaviour in the strongest possible terms. It is absolutely incompatible with the values ​​of FCN.Sommer currently plays for Nunrberg IICredit: GettyHe has also played for Mannheim and DAC Dunajská StredaCredit: Getty”The police investigation into the incident began last night.”If there are any convictions in this connection, the club will of course react accordingly.”Former Premier League star John Paintsil rushed to hospital after terrifying car crashSommer was targeted by a crowd protest during the 4-0 defeat at home to Magdeburg on Saturday.One banner read: “Club pride instead of hipster posing. Niklas Wilson, you’re s**t, like FCB.”Another stated: “Wilson, p**s off, you Bayern pig.”Sommer shared images of the wounds he suffered after the attack on social media.The pictures showed red marks and swelling across his face.Sommer posted his injuries on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/niklas.wilson/Swelling could be seen around his faceCredit: https://www.instagram.com/niklas.wilson/Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Football world pays emotional tribute to Sol Bamba with ex-teammate shaken ‘to my core’ by news of tragic death at 39

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      SOL BAMBA’S untimely death aged just 39 has seen an outpouring of emotion from the football world.The Ivory Coast international passed away after falling ill while working in Turkey on Friday following a battle with cancer.Neil Warnock shared a close bond with Sol BambaCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe former Cardiff defender tragically passed away this weekCredit: GettySol Bamba was a popular figure in English footballCredit: RexBamba, who leaves behind wife Chloe and their three children, was a hugely popular figure within the game.And the esteem with which he was held had been reflected by the messages shared on social media in the wake of his tragic passing.Neil Warnock, who signed Bamba before leading Cardiff to the Premier League, paid a glowing tribute.He wrote on X: “I can’t believe I won’t see that beaming smile again.READ MORE ON BAMBA”I’m so happy that Sol was part of my life and we had such brilliant memories together.”I’m heartbroken for Chloe and the family and all my thoughts are with them.”Sol was a ray of sunshine and I’ll miss him so much.”Former Cardiff defender Lee Peltier wrote on X: “Love you brother. Rest easy my big brother – always there for me, will never forget.”Most read in FootballEx-Bluebirds defender and manager Mark Hudson said: “Never had the chance to witness what a truly great man and leader you were.”We have shared stories and I loved our chats, however brief. My heart goes out to Sol’s family. I am devastated for you.”Junior Hoilett, who won promotion with Cardiff alongside Bamba, said: “RIP Big Bro. Love Always.”Ipswich’s Sam Morsy, who was with Bamba at Middlesbrough, wrote: “Ahhh man big Sol .. incredible human one of the best I’ve shared a dressing room with, at the start of his coaching career.”Writing in Arabic, Morsy added: “We belong to Allah and to him we shall return.”Former Middlesbrough defender Cyrus Christie said: “This news has shook me to my core. Only the other day we spoke as you started your managerial career.”Fly high brother, may your soul rest in peace. One of the nicest and most humble guys to grace this game. Thoughts and prayers go out to your family.”Sol Bamba poses with wife ChloeCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoThey had three children togetherCredit: Instagram @cebambaSol Bamba enjoyed a long careerCredit: RexCurrent Cardiff left-back Callum O’Dowda said: “Heartbroken. Despite everything you went through, you epitomised the most positive outlook on life. A lesson I will hold forever. My thoughts are with your family.”Bluebirds goalkeeper Jak Alnwick wrote: “Rest in peace Sol, one of the nicest guys I’ve ever come across in football.”And Neil Etheridge, a team-mate of Bamba’s at Cardiff, said: “One of the nicest guys I have met off the field and on it.”Always smiling, always so happy, always seeing the brighter side of life.”When I joined the club, before he knew me, Sol treated me as a brother. When we got to know each other we became family. Rest in peace Sol.”Ex-Cardiff winger Nathaniel Mendez-Laing wrote: “My guy always looked out for me. Love you brother.”Cardiff, where Bamba made 118 appearances, said the centre-back was a “hero” and described his impact at the club as “immeasurable”.Bamba’s health battlesSol Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma on Christmas Eve 2020 before undergoing four months of chemo.He told Mail Sport in 2022: “After the first chemo I was down for four days.”I could not get out of bed. I lost weight. After that, I told my missus, ‘I’m not going for the second round’. The way I was, in that moment, it was awful.” But the defender quickly rose to the occasion and was lauded for raising awareness of the disease as he battled it head on.Speaking to the Guardian in November last year he said: “The way I went about it, people gave me praise … it was too much.”That’s just what I’m like. I understand some people prefer to shy away from it, but I’m different. I’m just being myself.“Even clubs now are being careful now when they do medical checks, all the way from Premier League to League Two, which is massive. In our game we talk about injuries but you never think about cancer.”Bamba was given the all-clear in May 2021, but said he still had to be “careful”, paying regular visits to the doctor.“Unfortunately when you’ve had cancer once, you always have to double check and make sure it doesn’t come back,” he continued. “Is it behind me 100%? Well, I wish but you never know.”Incredibly, he returned to playing football just five months after his diagnosis.At the time of his comeback, he said: “When I was going through chemo, I never thought for one minute I would come back and play. And I never thought about scoring penalties at Old Trafford – nights like that seemed a million miles away.”The club wrote: “As a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our football club was immeasurable. He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman.”Leeds – another former club – said in a post on X: “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away.”Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts.”Middlesbrough said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39.”Our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends at this time.”A Football Association of Wales statement read: “The FAW is devastated to hear the sad news of Sol Bamba’s passing.”Sol obtained his coaching badges with the FAW and was currently studying for his Uefa pro licence, where everyone he worked with admired his positivity and his love for the game.”Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Sol’s family, friends and everyone that knew him during this difficult time.”Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff but managed to return to the field for the Bluebirds after being declared cancer-free following chemotherapy.Wife’s statementHe had three children – Roonea, Lily and Amy.Bamba’s wife Chloe paid tribute to the gentle giant in a heartbreaking statement.She wrote: “For the last few years I have watched Sol fight his cancer head on with an astounding mental and physical strength and stoicism.”Unfortunately, it was never a fair fight and just when things were looking up he took a downturn and finally succumbed on 31 August.”These years have been indescribably difficult but we still managed to find joy and laughter in it. I’ve experienced my worst days but also some of my best.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Sol accepted his fate as God’s will and left this earth knowing, without a shadow of a doubt, that he was loved wholeheartedly. I made sure of that.”It was an honour to have loved and been loved by Sol. I learnt so much from him. He is my hero. My heart is breaking. What a gift, what a gift, what a gift to have been loved by him.” More

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      Sol Bamba’s touching final tweet as former Leicester and Cardiff star tragically dies at 39 after health battle

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      SOL BAMBA’S final tweet was a heartfelt tribute to former manager Sven Goran Eriksson.The retired defender tragically passed away aged 39 after falling ill on Friday following a brave fight with cancer.Sol Bamba passed away this week after a brave fight against cancerCredit: Instagram @solbambaThe defender played for Leicester from 2011-2012Credit: GettyHe paid tribute to former Foxes boss Sven-Goran Eriksson in his final post on XCredit: GettySol Bamba had three children with wife ChloeCredit: Instagram @solbambaTributes have flooded in from former clubs, as well as Bamba’s heartbroken wife Chloe.Eriksson’s tragic death aged 76 after his own battle with cancer was confirmed by his family on Monday.Bamba played under the Swede with Leicester and the Ivory Coast and paid a moving tribute to the manager.He wrote: “Deeply devastated by the news of Sven’s passing today.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He was not just an exquisite person, but he was also the best coach I’ve ever had, inspiring my journey as a player but also as a manager.”My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Sven.”A fan later replied under the post: “Quite fitting your own final message was one of such respect and sincerity. Incredibly sad news. RIP Sol.”Bamba was working as a technical director for Turkish club Adanaspor when he was taken ill before a game against Manisa BBSK on Friday.Most read in FootballA statement from Adanaspor posted on Saturday night read: “Our Technical Director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the Manisa Football Club match played yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there. Our condolences to his family and our community.”Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff but managed to return to the field for the Bluebirds after being declared cancer-free following chemotherapy.Sol Bamba is a Cardiff legend after helping the Bluebirds to promotionCredit: Instagram @solbambaHe will be sorely missed by many fansCredit: Instagram @solbambaHe had three children – Roonea, Lily and Amy – with wife Chloe, who paid tribute to the popular former defender.She wrote: “For the last few years I have watched Sol fight his cancer head on with an astounding mental and physical strength and stoicism.”Unfortunately, it was never a fair fight and just when things were looking up he took a downturn and finally succumbed on 31st August.”These years have been indescribably difficult but we still managed to find joy and laughter in it.”I’ve experienced my worst days but also some of my best.”Sol accepted his fate as God’s will and left this earth knowing, without a shadow of a doubt, that he was loved wholeheartedly. I made sure of that.”It was an honour to have loved and been loved by Sol. I learnt so much from him. He is my hero. My heart is breaking.”What a gift, what a gift, what a gift to have been loved by him.”BAMBA’S HEALTH BATTLESSol Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma on Christmas Eve 2020 before undergoing four months of chemo.He told Mail Sport in 2022: “After the first chemo I was down for four days.”I could not get out of bed. I lost weight. After that, I told my missus, ‘I’m not going for the second round’. The way I was, in that moment, it was awful.” But the defender quickly rose to the occasion and was lauded for raising awareness of the disease as he battled it head on.Speaking to the Guardian in November last year he said: “The way I went about it, people gave me praise … it was too much.”That’s just what I’m like. I understand some people prefer to shy away from it, but I’m different. I’m just being myself.“Even clubs now are being careful now when they do medical checks, all the way from Premier League to League Two, which is massive. In our game we talk about injuries but you never think about cancer.”Bamba was given the all-clear in May 2021, but said he still had to be “careful”, paying regular visits to the doctor.“Unfortunately when you’ve had cancer once, you always have to double check and make sure it doesn’t come back,” he continued. “Is it behind me 100%? Well, I wish but you never know.”Incredibly, he returned to playing football just five months after his diagnosis.At the time of his comeback, he said: “When I was going through chemo, I never thought for one minute I would come back and play. And I never thought about scoring penalties at Old Trafford – nights like that seemed a million miles away.”Cardiff said Bamba was a “club legend” and his death brought them the “deepest sadness”.The club wrote: “As a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our football club was immeasurable. He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman.”Leeds said in a post on X: “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away.”Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMiddlesbrough said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39.”Our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends at this time.” More