Tito Vilanova
SpainBiography of Tito Vilanova
Tito Vilanova was a Spanish football coach who achieved great success in his managerial career. Born in Bellcaire d'Empordà, Girona, Catalonia, Vilanova started his football journey as a player for the youth team of FC Barcelona. However, he struggled to break into the first team and eventually moved on to play for other local clubs.
In 1990, Vilanova joined UE Figueres, where he played a key role in helping the team secure a third-place finish in their division. He then moved to Celta de Vigo, but his playing time was limited during his three seasons with the club. Vilanova later played for CD Badajoz, RCD Mallorca, UE Lleida, and Elche CF in the second division.
During his time at Lleida, Vilanova scored a memorable goal against FC Barcelona in the 1998 Copa Catalunya. This goal marked the first time a team managed by Portuguese coach José Mourinho, who temporarily swapped roles with head coach Louis van Gaal, had conceded a goal. In 2001, Vilanova decided to retire as a player.
However, Vilanova's love for football led him to pursue a coaching career. He initially worked with FC Palafrugell and then moved on to Primera Catalana. After serving as the technical director of Terrassa FC, Vilanova became an assistant manager for FC Barcelona B under the leadership of Pep Guardiola.
In the summer of 2008, Vilanova and Guardiola successfully guided the reserve team to promotion to the second division. They were subsequently promoted to the first team, replacing Frank Rijkaard and Johan Neeskens. Their first season at Camp Nou was the most successful in the history of the club, as they won six major football trophies, including the Copa del Rey, the league championship, and the UEFA Champions League.
On April 27, 2012, it was announced that Guardiola would be leaving his position, and Vilanova would take over as the manager of FC Barcelona. Vilanova signed a two-year contract on June 15. Despite facing health issues, Vilanova led the team to win the domestic league title in the 2012-2013 season.
Sadly, Vilanova's time as the manager was cut short due to serious health problems. In July 2013, he had to leave his position due to a recurring tumor near his parotid gland. Despite undergoing treatments, Vilanova passed away on April 25, 2014, at the age of 45. His last match as the manager was on December 22, 2012, with his assistant Jordi Roura taking charge. Players from both teams wore special shirts in support of their coach. Vilanova's legacy as an exceptional coach and his contributions to FC Barcelona will forever be remembered.
