Farewell to Gianluca Vialli - the former striker has passed away at 58

Born in Cremona, Italy, on July 9, 1964, the former national team centre forward passed away in the English capital where he had been hospitalised in an attempt to battle the disease that struck him five years ago. After saying farewell to Sinisa Muhajlovic and Pelé, the footballing world has lost another champion who made history in the sport.

Vialli's family confirmed the former champion's death in a note: "With immeasurable sadness, we announce the passing of Gianluca Vialli."

"Surrounded by his family, he passed away last night after five years of illness faced with courage and dignity. We thank the many who supported him over the years with their affection. His memory and example will live forever in our hearts".

Last December, he left his post as the Italian national team delegation chief with a tough message, but not without hope: "At the end of a long and difficult 'negotiation' with my wonderful team of oncologists, I have decided to suspend, I hope temporarily, my present and future professional commitments.

"The goal is to use all psycho-physical energies to help my body overcome this stage of the disease, so that I will be able as soon as possible to face new adventures and share them with all of you. A hug."

Among the first to remember Vialli was Sampdoria, the club who had him as an icon.