Vilanova steps down

Tito Vilanova has had to step down as Barcelona coach because he has not been able to give his full commitment to the job as much as he has wanted to he has revealed.

The club announced the 44 year-olds vacancy as he will be leaving to continue cancer treatment.

In December 2012, Vilanova took three months out to undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy. He returned to see the Spanish side take La Liga title.

“With the treatments I must follow from now on, I cannot devote 100% to the tasks of head coach,” he said.

Vilanova replaced Pep Guardiola in June 2012 as Barcelona manager has said he will continue to work for the club. He has also thanked the players and staff for their support at this time.

In an open letter in the website he stated: After five wonderful years as part of a team that has made dreams come true for any coach, it’s time to face a change in my professional life and focus my energy on continuing to fight the disease I was diagnosed with a year and a half ago. It is not easy to leave this very special group of players, fellow staff and friends with whom I shared many memorable experiences.”

Within in the next week, Barcelona is expected to announce his successor.

Spanish reports have suggested Joan Francesc Ferrer, known as Rubi, may replace Vilanova in a caretaker capacity.