Sol Bamba's poignant final tweet before tragic death of ex-Premier League defender at 39 - The Mirror

Former Premier League footballer died at the age of just 39, with his former clubs Leeds United and Cardiff City leading the tributes for the Cote d'Ivoire international

Sol Bamba's final tweet before his death at the age of 39 saw him pay tribute to former England and Leicester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Bamba, who had been working as technical director with Adanaspor in Turkey, died after falling ill ahead of a match on Friday. His club confirmed the news, while tributes have poured in from his former employers in England.

One of those English clubs was Leicester City, where he played under Eriksson. The Swedish boss had also worked with Bamba at international level during a spell as Cote d'Ivoire manager, which saw him take charge for the 2010 World Cup campaign.

Eriksson himself had died just days earlier. The one-time England manager had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, and Bamba was one of the players to pay a moving tribute to his former boss.

"Deeply devastated by the news of Sven’s passing today," Bamba wrote. "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."

Following news of Bamba's own death, a number of fans found themselves paying their own respects to the Ivorian. "Quite fitting your own final message was one of such respect and sincerity. Incredibly sad news. RIP Sol," one reply read.

Pay your own tributes to Sol Bamba in the comments section

"It is with the deepest sadness that we have learnt this evening about the passing of Club legend, Sol Bamba," Bamba's former club Cardiff City said. "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. Our thoughts are with his friends, family and everyone lucky enough to know and love Sol."

Another old employer, Leeds United, shared their own tribute. "Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away," it began. "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."

Adanaspor issued a statement sending "Our condolences to his family and our community" following Bamba's death. He had only joined the club in July, having spent time on Cardiff's coaching staff last season.

Bamba was previously diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but received the all-clear in 2021. Later that same year, he ended his playing career with a spell at Middlesbrough, and the Teesside club shared a tribute of their own.

"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39," their statement read. "Our thoughts are with Sol's family and friends at this time. RIP Sol."

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