Former Lazio, Roma and Inter Milan defender Sinisa Mihajlovic has died aged 53.
He was diagnosed with leukemia in July 2019 and after three rounds of chemotherapy he underwent a bone marrow transplant.
AFP
He played four matches in the 2002 World Cup for Yugoslavia
Mihajlovic played 455 games during his playing career before becoming coach of AC Milan and, more recently, Bologna.
A statement of A-seriesItaly’s top flight, said: “The Lega Serie A is deeply saddened by the passing of Siniša Mihajlović, an icon of football and life.
“His pure class as a footballer and coach, his strength and his humanity are an example that leaves an indelible mark on Italian and world football.”
Mihajlovic had a decorated career, winning Serie A and the Coppa Italia with Lazio.
He also won the European Cup at Red Star Belgrade in 1991, which was the club’s first triumph in the competition.
The former defender made 58 appearances for the Yugoslavia national team, including at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000.
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Mihajlovic spent six seasons at Lazio
Much of his career has been in the Italian top flight after playing in his native country.
His last appearance as a player was in 2006 at Inter Milan, then he became Roberto Mancini’s assistant at the San Siro side.
Mihajlovic’s first job as a manager would be at Bologna before taking charge of Fiorentina and Milan, as well as the Serbian national team.
The former defender then returned to Bologna in early 2019 until September this year, and remained in charge of the club despite his illness.
