Fiorentina’s general director Joe Barone has died at the age of 57 it has been confirmed, after he was taken ill at the weekend before their game with Atalanta.
News emerged in the build-up to kick-off in Sunday’s game that Barone had been feeling unwell and the game was called off given the concerns surrounding his health, with the director rushed to hospital.
It then emerged that he was in a critical condition and on life support, but sadly the worst possible news has been confirmed today.
The club said in a statement: “It is with deep sorrow and immense sadness that Fiorentina confirms the loss of one of its figureheads, a person who has marked the recent history of the club and who will never be forgotten. General director Giuseppe Barone passed away today at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan after suddenly falling ill on Sunday.
“Rocco Commisso and his family, Daniele Prade, Nicolas Burdisso, Alessandro Ferrari, Vincenzo Italiano, Cristiano Biraghi and everyone associated with Fiorentina are utterly devastated by the terrible loss of a man who showed great professionalism and gave his heart and soul for these colours.
“He was a treasured friend who always stayed strong in the happiest and, above all, the most difficult moments. The entire Viola world sends its heartfelt condolences to Giuseppe’s wife Camilla, his children and the entire Barone family during this time of immense sorrow.”
As per The Athletic, Barone fell ill at the team hotel in the hours leading up to the game and was then transported to a local hospital in Milan. Fiorentina’s next game is against the Rossoneri after the international break, and he is certain to be honoured.
Milan sent a message on their social media accounts, which reads as follows: “AC Milan is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Joe Barone. Our most heartfelt condolences go to his family and everyone at Fiorentina”
My heart goes out to Fiorentina, the players, the fans, and to his family.
Rest in Peace, Joe.