Johan Cruyff thanks fans for support; football world sends well wishes
Thoughts and prayers from around the football world have been with Johan Cruyff over the last 24 hours after it was revealed that the legendary Dutch player and manager has been diagnosed with lung cancer.
The former Ajax and Barcelona great took time to thank his supporters shortly after his spokeswoman confirmed the unpleasant news.
Muchas gracias, Dank jullie wel, Thank you for all your support. https://t.co/XvmDdICj8p
— Johan Cruyff (@JohanCruyff) October 22, 2015
Related: Dutch legend Johan Cruyff diagnosed with lung cancer
In a statement on Cruyff's website, his management staff confirmed that lung cancer had been discovered, but revealed that tests have not been finalised as examinations continue to be carried out on the 68-year-old.
Over the past weeks, Johan Cruyff has been undergoing medical examinations at a hospital in Barcelona. During these examinations, lung cancer has been uncovered. The examinations are still ongoing.
To respect the privacy of Johan and his family, and the fact that the examinations have not been finalised, further announcements cannot be made at the moment. We hope that people are willing to respect the privacy of Johan and his family. We will make further announcements when the examinations have been finalised.
News of his illness quickly triggered a massive response from prominent figures throughout the football world:
Johan, you'll win this one too! The whole Club is behind you.
— Josep Maria Bartomeu (@jmbartomeu) October 22, 2015
Benítez: "Regarding Cruyff, regardless of the [shirt] colours, we are talking about a legend. We wish him well."
#RMCity #RMLiga
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) October 23, 2015
Todo mi apoyo para Johan Cruyff y su familia. Un abrazo grande
— Andrés Iniesta (@andresiniesta8) October 22, 2015
(All my support to Johan Cruyff and his family. A big hug)
Dear #johancruijff i know you as a fighter and after many battles you won you will win this one too https://t.co/zrbflIicLK
— Ruud Gullit (@GullitR) October 22, 2015
.@JohanCruyff to know that globally we are cheering for you, will help you overcome this challenge too. Be strong Johan! Ale
— Alessandro Del Piero (@delpieroale) October 23, 2015
Dear @johancruyff you have always been a winner and so you'll be this time. Best regards
— Carlo Ancelotti (@MrAncelotti) October 23, 2015
— Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) October 22, 2015
Very sorry to hear that Johan Cruyff has been diagnosed with lung cancer. A beastly illness. Wish him well with the battle that lies ahead.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) October 22, 2015