Cancer kills Chelsea legend Gianluca Vialli at 58
Italy and Chelsea legend, Gianluca Vialli has passed away after losing his brave battle with cancer.
The former Sampdoria, Juventus and Chelsea star had stepped back from his role with Italy last month to focus on beating the disease.
He was reportedly first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017 but revealed in April 2020 that he had received the all-clear after successfully undergoing treatment.
Vialli went on to play an important role as team co-ordinator in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph alongside boss Roberto Mancini, his close friend and old Sampdoria team-mate.
He would later confirm in December 2021 that the cancer had returned.
His mother Maria Teresa and brother Nino reportedly rushed to London to be with him in hospital when his condition worsened towards the end of last year.
He netted 16 goals in 59 caps and represented the Azzurri at two World Cups
“You’ll be missed by so many. A legend to us and to all of football. Rest in peace, Gianluca Vialli.” Chelsea Twitted earlier on Friday
