Sol Bamba, the former Ivorian defender, has passed away at the age of 39. His Turkish club, Adanaspor, confirmed the news on Saturday night.
The club announced that Bamba, who had fallen ill before a match against Manisa Football Club, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital where he unfortunately lost his battle for life. “Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there. Our condolences to his family and our community,” the statement read.
Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 during his time at Cardiff City, but he was declared cancer-free following treatment. Throughout his career, he played for nine different clubs from 2004 to 2022, including Paris Saint-Germain, Leicester City, Cardiff City, Leeds United, and Middlesbrough. He also earned 46 caps for the Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire.
Cardiff City, Bamba’s former club, paid tribute to him, calling him “a club legend whose impact on our football club was immeasurable.” They added, “He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room, and a true gentleman.”
Leeds United, where Bamba served as captain from 2015 to 2016, also expressed their sorrow. “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away. 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,” the club said.
