Former Juventus star Nico Hidalgo dies aged just 32 as clubs pay tribute

Nico Hidalgo, who was on the books of Juventus as a youngster before spells at clubs across Spain, has died aged just 32 after a battle with lung cancer

Former Juventus midfielder Nico Hidalgo has died at the age of just 32 after a battle with lung cancer.

Midfielder Hidalgo came through the ranks of his hometown team of Motril before he was signed the books of the Italian giants as a youngster. He never made an appearance for the Juventus first team before spells with clubs across Spain. He played for Granada, Cadiz, Racing Santander and most recently, Extremadura.

He was diagnosed with lung cancer back in 2021 and contracted bone metastatis, where cancer spreads to the bones, before retiring from football in 2022.

After the news of his death was announced this morning (Saturday March 1), a number of Hidalgo's former clubs have taken to social media to pay tribute.

A statement from Cadiz said: "Nico Hidalgo has left us. We will never forget your smile and your joy. Your struggle is our example. Rest in peace."

Extremadura, which was dissolved in 2022 over financial issues, added: "This morning we woke up to the sad news of the death of Nico Hidalgo, former Extremadura UD footballer, at the age of 32 due to lung cancer which he had been fighting since 2021.

"From CD Extremadura, we would like to express our deepest condolences to his family and friends. We send them all our love and strength in these difficult times."

Granada meanwhile said: "With Nico's departure, not only is an excellent footballer gone, but also a great person. But the affection of his teammates, coaches, workers, directors and fans will always be present."

Racing Santander meanwhile will hold a minute's silence before their home game will Elche on Sunday evening as the club reflected on the "irreparable loss".

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