Sorrow As Côte d’Ivoire's Toure Passed Away

Sorrow As Côte d’Ivoire's Toure Passed Away 

Sampson Adedeji

Sad news has hit the family of Ivorian football legends Yaya and Kolo Touré, as their father has reportedly passed away, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

According to local media reports from Abidjan, the Touré patriarch died earlier this week after a brief illness. Details surrounding his death are still sketchy, but tributes have begun to pour in from across the football world.

The late Mr. Touré was known for his immense support and influence in the early careers of his sons, who went on to become two of Africa’s most decorated footballers.

Yaya and Kolo, who both represented Côte d’Ivoire and had successful careers in Europe notably at Manchester City and Arsenal — have yet to release an official statement.

The Ivorian Football Federation and several former teammates of the brothers have sent their condolences to the Touré family, describing the late father as a pillar behind two of the nation’s greatest football icons.