Former Ivory Coast defender Sol Bamba dies aged 39

Sol Bamba, the former defender for the Ivory Coast, has passed away at the age of 39, as announced by Turkish club Adanaspor, where he held the position of technical director, on Saturday.

Bamba had a notable career, playing for clubs such as Cardiff City, Leeds United, and Leicester City. His experience also included stints with the Italian team Palermo, Scottish clubs Dunfermline Athletic and Hibernian, as well as the Turkish club Trabzonspor.

He represented his national team 46 times, scoring one goal, and retired from professional football in January 2023. Following his retirement, he transitioned into coaching, initially serving as assistant manager at Cardiff City before assuming the role of technical director at Adanaspor.

In a statement, Adanaspor expressed their sorrow, stating, "Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill prior to yesterday's match against Manisa Football Club, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital, where he sadly succumbed to his illness." They extended their condolences to his family and the community.

Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2021 but was later declared cancer-free after undergoing chemotherapy.

Cardiff City, where Bamba achieved promotion to the Premier League in his inaugural season, described his influence on the club as 'immeasurable.' The club stated, "It is with profound sadness that we learned of the passing of our club legend, Sol Bamba. He was a hero to all, a leader in every dressing room, and a true gentleman."

The Ivory Coast national football team shared their grief on Instagram, stating, "This is absolutely tragic news. Sol Bamba has passed away at the age of just 39. Our deepest condolences to the family."

Leeds United remembered him as "one of the nicest people in football," adding, "The thoughts of everyone at Leeds United are with Sol’s family and friends during this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol; you will forever remain in our hearts."