GettyDavide Astori, the captain of Fiorentina, has tragically died aged just 31.
Astori was reportedly found dead in his room at the La di Moret hotel in Udine, on the eve of his team’s game against Udinese in the Serie A.
La Fiorentina profondamente sconvolta si trova costretta a comunicare che e' scomparso il suo capitano Davide Astori, colto da improvviso malore.
Per la terribile e delicata situazione, e soprattutto per rispetto della sua famiglia si fa appello alla sensibilità di tutti. pic.twitter.com/bFGnkReWEC— ACF Fiorentina (@acffiorentina) March 4, 2018
A statement released by the club states:
Fiorentina are profoundly shaken and forced to announce that their captain Davide Astori has died.
For this terrible and delicate situation, and above all out of respect for his family, we appeal to the sensitivity of the media.
As of yet his cause of death remains unknown although it is thought that he died in his sleep.
The game between Fiorentina and Udinese, scheduled for later today, has since been postponed.
Astori, who had played professional football at the highest level for 12 years, began his career with AC Milan before quickly moving to Cagliari where he began to make a name for himself.
GettyAstori eventually moved to Fiorentina, becoming a vital member of the squad immediately, playing for the team 78 times.
He also became a familiar figure on the Italian national team – being selected 14 times for his country and scoring once.
Our thoughts go out to Astori’s family and friends at this hard time.
Rest in peace.
