Former World Cup participant Jorge Bolano has sadly died at the age of 47.
Reports indicate that the former midfielder suffered a fatal heart attack after celebrating a family birthday in Cucuta, Colombia.
He was quickly taken to a nearby hospital, but doctors were unable to save him.
Fellow players and fans have used social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to Bolano following the news of his death.
Gianluigi Buffon, Bolano`s former teammate at Parma, commented: “Jorge was an unforgettable friend and teammate, a constant presence in a dressing room full of extraordinary champions.
“We played together and achieved victories during the successful period of a great Parma team.
“On the field, he was a tireless fighter, and off the field, I fondly remember his kindness and humanity, which made him a role model for everyone.
“We will always remember you, rest in peace, my friend.”
Bolano began his professional career with Colombian club Atletico Junior in 1993 and spent six years there before moving to Italy.
In Italy, he joined Buffon at Parma, where they won the Italian Cup in the 2001/02 season.
The midfielder also had loan spells at Sampdoria and Lecce before joining Modena in 2007.
He returned to Colombia in 2010 with Cucuta Deportivo, where he concluded his playing career two years later before retiring.
Bolano also represented the Colombian national team 34 times, scoring one goal.
He played for his country in the 1998 World Cup held in France.
