Gianluca Vialli, a former forward for Italy and Chelsea, died at age 58.
Vialli passed away Sunday night surrounded by his family after a five-year cancer fight, his passing coming only weeks after that of Sinisa Mihajlovic and Brazilian superstar Pele.'We thank the many who have supported him over the years with their affection. The memory of him and his example will live forever in our hearts,'In a statement, his family wrote.
He played for Italy in the World Cups of 1986 and 1990, won the Champions League with Juventus in 1996, and became well-known in England during a brief stint at Stamford Bridge.
'You'll be missed by so many. A legend to us and to all of football. Rest in peace, Gianluca Vialli.'Chelsea paid respects on Twitter after hearing the news.