Former Cardiff and Leeds defender Sol Bamba has passed away at the age of 39. The Turkish club Adanaspor confirmed his death late Saturday night.
In their statement, the club noted, “Our technical director Souleymane Bamba fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club yesterday. He was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital but unfortunately lost his battle for life there. Our condolences go out to his family and our community.”
Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while with Cardiff City but was declared cancer-free after chemotherapy, returning to play for the Bluebirds and later, Middlesbrough.
Over his career, Bamba played for clubs including Leicester, Hibernian, and Dunfermline, alongside earning 46 international caps for the Ivory Coast.
Leeds United expressed their sadness, stating, “Everyone at LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away. 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 City called him “a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room, and a true gentleman,” while Middlesbrough stated, “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this time. RIP Sol.”
The Football Association also expressed its sorrow at Bamba’s passing.
Originally born in France to Ivorian parents, Bamba started his football career at Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Scotland, where he made a significant impact, helping Dunfermline reach the Scottish Cup final in his first season. He later played key roles at Hibernian and Leicester before joining Leeds, where he served as club captain, and later moved to Cardiff, helping them achieve promotion to the Premier League.
Bamba made over 100 appearances for Cardiff City and was appointed assistant manager for six months in 2023. He represented the Ivory Coast at the 2008 Olympics and played in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, making his last international appearance two years later.
Credit: Sky Sports
