Former Cardiff and Leeds defender Sol Bamba has died at the age of 39. Bamba had been employed at Turkish club Adanaspor, who announced the news late on Saturday night.

A club statement read: "Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there. Our condolences to his family and our community."

Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff, but was declared cancer-free after a course of chemotherapy and returned to play again for the Bluebirds and Middlesbrough. His career also took in the likes of Leicester, Hibernian and Dunfermline, in addition to 46 international appearances for the Ivory Coast.

"Everyone at LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away," Leeds said in a statement posted on X. "Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts."

Cardiff said Bamba was "a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman".

Middlesbrough wrote: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39. Our thoughts are with Sol's family and friends at this time. RIP Sol."

Bamba, who was born in France to Ivorian parents, began his playing career at Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Scotland after failing to establish himself in the first team.

He helped Dunfermline reach the Scottish Cup final in his first season, before moving to Hibs and then Leicester in 2011. Following spells in Turkey and Italy he joined Leeds, where he was club captain, while in his first full season at Cardiff he helped them clinch promotion to the Premier League.

He played more than 100 times for the Bluebirds and was assistant manager for six months in 2023.

Bamba represented the Ivory Coast at the 2008 Olympics and played in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations. He made his final international appearance two years later.

A Career Defined by Resilience and Dedication

Sol Bamba's football journey was one marked by both triumph and adversity. His career started at the prestigious Paris Saint-Germain academy, but he had to find his footing elsewhere after failing to break into the first team. He made his mark in Scotland, helping Dunfermline reach the Scottish Cup final in his first season, before moving to Hibernian and then Leicester City in 2011.

His time at Leicester was significant for Bamba, not just for the football, but for the personal development he experienced. He credited his time under Sven-Goran Eriksson as inspiring both his journey as a player and a manager. Bamba's final post on X was a tribute to the former England manager, acknowledging Eriksson's profound influence on his career.

After a few stints in Turkey and Italy, Bamba's career found a new rhythm at Leeds United. He was appointed club captain, a testament to his leadership qualities and the respect he commanded within the team. His leadership skills were further showcased at Cardiff City, where he helped the team secure promotion to the Premier League in 2018. He would go on to make over 100 appearances for the club, cementing his status as a fan favorite.

Bamba's career was not without its challenges. In 2021, while at Cardiff, he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This diagnosis was a turning point, but Bamba met it with incredible courage and determination. After undergoing chemotherapy, he returned to the field, playing for both Cardiff and Middlesbrough. This period of his career exemplifies his resilience and unwavering commitment to the sport he loved.

A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration

Bamba's impact on the game goes beyond his on-field achievements. He was a true gentleman, respected and admired by his teammates, managers, and fans alike. His leadership qualities shone through in every dressing room he graced, inspiring his colleagues to push themselves to their limits and strive for greatness. Bamba's story is a testament to the power of human spirit, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, one can rise above challenges and achieve remarkable things.

In his post-playing career, Bamba embraced the coaching realm, serving as assistant manager at Cardiff before taking on his first head coach role at Adanaspor. This transition highlighted his desire to continue contributing to the beautiful game, imparting his knowledge and experience to the next generation of players. Bamba's passing is a profound loss to the world of football, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, inspiration, and resilience. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the game, his kind heart, and his ability to inspire others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the countless fans whose lives he touched.

Remembering Sol Bamba: A Life Well Lived

Sol Bamba's life was a journey filled with both triumph and hardship. He conquered challenges on and off the field, demonstrating an unwavering spirit that resonated with those who knew him. While his time on earth was cut tragically short, he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and fans. He may be gone, but his spirit will forever be remembered within the world of football. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched.