Tito Vilanova has stepped down as Barcelona boss

According to reports from Spain, Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has stepped down from his post after suffering a tumor relapse.

The coach had a tumor removed from his parotid gland in November last year while working as the Catalan club’s assistant coach.

The operation was a success, and Vilanova returned to work with Barca, eventually taking over from Pep Guardiola when he stepped down in April.

Spanish television station Cuatro reported that Vilanova had suffered a relapse and had decided to step down with immediate effect.

Barcelona have already contacted their first-choice candidate to replace him on a temporary basis for the remainder of the season and are awaiting a decision.

“Very sorry to hear the news,” Barca midfielder Xavi said on his official Twitter account.

Barca released a press statement this morning announcing they had suspended all activities for today but did not go into details and did not mention Vilanova.

The club confirmed a further announcement would be made later today.

The statement read: “Barcelona announce that it is has suspended the press conference from president Sandro Rosell planned for midday. As well as that, the media Christmas lunch has been cancelled.

“Later today the club will issue a further release. Until that time we will not make any announcement about this matter.

“We regret any inconvenience this decision may cause.”