Internationally recognized soccer star Jorge Bolano has tragically died suddenly after suffering an unexpected heart attack.
The World Cup player was just 47 years old when he passed away.
The ex-midfielder reportedly dropped dead after celebrating a family birthday in Cucuta in his native Colombia.
Bolano was rushed to a nearby clinic, with doctors desperately trying to resuscitate him.
However, they were unable to save his life, and he was pronounced dead.
Players and fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to Bolano following the news of his death.
The Colombian’s former Parma team-mate Gianluigi Buffon said:
“Jorge was an unforgettable friend and team-mate, a constant in a locker room of extraordinary champions.
“We played and won together in the golden years of a great Parma.
“On the pitch, he fought without sparing himself.
“Off the pitch, I fondly remember his kindness and humanity that made him an example for everyone.
“We will always carry you with us.
“Rest in peace, my friend.”
Bolano kicked off his playing career with the Colombian team Atletico Junior in 1993.
He spent six years in Atlantico before moving to Italy.
There, he joined Buffon in playing for the top Italian team Parma.
He went on to win the Italian Cup during the 2001/02 season.
The midfielder enjoyed loan spells with Sampdoria and Lecce before joining Modena in 2007.
He then returned to his home country in 2010 with Cucuta Deportivo.
Bolano spent the final two years of his career at the club before retiring.
Bolano also made 34 appearances for the Colombia national team, scoring once.
He appeared for the nation at the 1998 World Cup in France.
