Former Spain and Barcelona manager, Luis Enrique, announced the death of his nine-year-old daughter Xana. She had osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer for five months.
The statement from his official twitter account read, “Our daughter Xana has passed away this afternoon at the age of 9, after fighting for five intense months against osteosarcoma.”
“We thank you for all the love received during these months and we appreciate the discretion and understanding,” added Enrique.
“Also, we thank the staff of the Sant Joan de Deu and Sant Pau hospitals for their dedication and treatment, to the medical nurses and all the volunteers. With a special mention to the team of palliative priests of Sant Joan de Deu,” continued the Spanish footballer.
“We will miss you very much but we will remember you every day of our lives in the hope that in the future we will meet again. You will be the star that guides our family. Rest Xanita. Martinez Cullell family.”
Enrique left the Spain’s national team in June after his daughter’s diagnosis.
The statement by the Spanish Football Federation read, “Mourns the sad loss of little Xana” and it “wants to show our condolences to family and friends, joining us all today to their pain.”
Josep Maria Bartomeu, Barcelona president, said, “All of our support and compassion goes to Luis Enrique, his wife and all of his family at this particularly painful time. All the Barça family are touched by the loss of Xana. Our condolences and all our sympathy for the Martínez Cullell family.”
Lionel Messi commented, “We are with you, all the strength of the world.”
Pedro, who plays as a forward or winger for the Spain national team, commented, “Devastated by the terrible news of Xana. My deepest condolences to Luis Enrique and all his family. Much encouragement and much strength mister!”
The bitter rivals of Barcelona, Real Madrid stated they “join the pain” of Enrique and his family and “want to convey their deepest condolences to them at these difficult times.” Sergio Ramos, the captain of Real Madrid posted a message on Twitter for Luis Enrique, “Mr, all our support and love for you and your family. There are no words, but you always have us by your side.”
