BARCELONA hero Hugo Sotil has passed away 75.
The Peruvian was hospitalised earlier this month after experiencing a “health issue”.
AFPBarcelona legend Hugo Sotil has passed away aged 75[/caption]
Doctors placed Sotil in intensive care and did their best to improve his condition.
But the former striker was tragically unable to recover and passed on Monday.
Barcelona announced his passing an emotional statement, an excerpt of which read: “On Monday 30 December Hugo Sotil passed away.
“Born in Ica in Peru on 18 May 1949, ‘Cholo’ as he was known, was considered one of the best South American players of his generation, and was a from fan favourites at Baraa during his time at the club.
The striker came to Barça for the 1973/74 season from Peruvian club Municipal de Lima.
“Sotil was a vital part of a team that included legends such as Johan Cruyff, [Juan Manuel] Asensi, [Carlos] Rexach and Marcial [Pina].
“He became a favourite of the Camp Nou crowd who would chant “Cholooo, Cholooo” in his honour.”
A social media statement read: “FC Barcelona mourns the passing of Hugo Sotil, who played for Baraa from 1973 to 1976, and offers its condolences to his family and friends.
“Rest in peace, Cholo.”
Scores of Barca fans responded to the X post to pay tribute to the late Sotil.
One wrote: “Rest in peace, legend.”
Another said: “Legend, that’s a sad loss.
And another said: “Rest in peace, Cholo.
One remarked: “Cholo, was such a legend.
“He wasn’t just talented on the field with his amazing dribbling and assists, loved by so many. Rest in peace, Cholo.”
Sotil joined Barcelona in 1973 and won a slew of trophies with the Catalan club.
He scored 29 goals in 96 appearances during his four years at the Nou Camp.
He formed an incredible partnership with the late Johan Cruyff, which is still talked about to this day.
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