Turkish club Adana Demirspor officially announced the passing of former Cardiff City star and former Leeds United captain, Sol Bamba, at the age of 39.
The statement from the Turkish team said: “Our technical director, Bamba, fell ill before yesterday’s match against Manisa Club and was taken to Baskent University Hospital. Unfortunately, he passed away there after battling his illness. We extend our condolences to his family and fans.”
In 2021, while at Cardiff City, Bamba was diagnosed with lymphoma. After undergoing chemotherapy, he returned to the field and played for Middlesbrough. After retiring in 2022, Bamba transitioned into coaching. He became a member of the Cardiff City coaching staff from January to June 2023, then moved to a Turkish club.
Bamba was born in France with Ivorian heritage. His professional career began at Paris Saint-Germain, and he subsequently played for clubs including Celtic, Leicester, Trabzonspor, Palermo, Leeds United, Cardiff City, and Middlesbrough. During his time at Leeds United, he served as captain. Additionally, as an Ivorian international, he represented the African team at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
Following Bamba’s passing, Leeds United released a statement: “Everyone at Leeds United is shocked by the news of the passing of former captain Sol Bamba. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends during this sad time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will always live on in our hearts.”
Cardiff City also released a statement: “We received the news of the passing of club legend Sol Bamba with the deepest sorrow. As both a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our club was immeasurable; he was a hero to all of us, a leader on the pitch, and a true gentleman. At this moment, our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends.”