Former soccer player Sol Bamba, who had stints with Leicester City, Leeds United, Middlesbrough, and Cardiff City, tragically passed away at the age of 39 on Saturday. The news of his death was confirmed by Adanaspor, where Bamba was serving as a coach. The English Premier League veteran collapsed before the match against Manisa Football Club and was rushed to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital, where he ultimately lost his life.
Adanaspor expressed their grief in an emotional statement on social media, saying, “Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the Manisa Football Club match played yesterday, was transferred to the Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost the battle for his life there. Our deepest condolences to his family and our community.”
Bamba had been battling Hodgkin’s lymphoma since January 2021. However, just four months after his diagnosis, he announced that he was cancer-free, bringing hope to his fans and loved ones. His unexpected passing has left the soccer community in shock.
Only a few days ago, Bamba had expressed his sadness over the death of former Leicester and England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson on social media. Little did he know that fate had a different plan for him.
Bamba was highly regarded as a center back for his home country, Ivory Coast, and had made a name for himself in English football over the years. His untimely death has been particularly difficult for the soccer community in England to come to terms with.
Sol Bamba’s legacy will be remembered not only for his contributions on the field but also for his resilience in the face of adversity. His passing serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.