'Tito will now concentrate on the most important game of his life' - Support from around the globe as Vilanova resigns from Barcelona

The 44-year-old stepped down from his post at Camp Nou in order to continue further cancer treatment, prompting messages of support from across the world on social media

Lionel Messi, Chelsea and Real Madrid are among the thousands to have issued messages of support to Tito Vilanova, after it was confirmed the 44-year-old has resigned as Barcelona coach due to ill health.

Barca president Sandro Rosell confirmed the news at a press conference on Friday evening, revealing that Vilanova was due to undergo further treatment to his throat cancer which would make it "impossible for him to continue as coach."

Former Barca stars Eric Abidal and David Villa also sent their best wishes via personal Twitter accounts, while Vilanova's son retweeted the message: "Tito is not retiring. He will just concentrate on the most important game of his life."

Below is a selection of some of the many messages of support from all corners of the footballing globe...

@eabidalofficial
Strength, Tito. You're great. Always by your side. Big, big hug.

@Guaje7Villa
A big hug for Tito and all his family. I wish you lots of strength to keep fighting in this very difficult moment.

‏@chelseafc
Everyone at Chelsea Football Club sends their best wishes to Tito Vilanova for a speedy recovery.

Jose Mourinho, his coaching staff and the Chelsea players also all send their best wishes to Tito Vilanova for his fast recovery.

@realmadriden
We would like to send our support, affection, and solidarity to Tito Vilanova, his family, friends, and FC Barcelona. #GetWellSoonTito

@GaryLineker
Very sad that FC Barcelona coach, Tito Vilanova has resigned due to his medical condition. Wish him all the very best.

@gerardeulofeu"Strength, Tito! We are with you!"

@Thi_Alcantara91
All the support in the world for Tito and his family. We are all with you! #ànimsTito

@juanmata10
All my support for Tito and his family, we are with you #getwellsoonTito #AnimsTito

Lionel Messi (via Facebook):Strength, Tito! We are all with you in this fight

@_AlvaroNegredo_
All the strength and luck to #TitoVilanova. I wish you a quick recuperation.

@ PReina25
Football is fleeting with its triumphs and troubles. All my strength to Tito Vilanova and his family. Animo!! You're going to win this game!

@FALCAO
Todo mi apoyo para Tito Vilanova, amigos y familia! Animo y mucha fuerza! // All my support to Tito Vilanova, friends and his family!

@paugasol
The first and most important thing in life is health. My best wishes to Tito Vilanova in this difficult moment. #ànimsTito #GetWellSoon

@SeppBlatter
My thoughts and best wishes for a full recovery are with Tito Vilanova, his family and @FCBarcelona tonight.

@19SCazorla
Muchos animos a Tito Vilanova y toda su familia. My best wishes to Tito Vilanova and his family.

@AlvaroMorata
Todo el ánimo del mundo para Tito.

@acmilan
Good luck to the great warrior Tito Vilanova. #ànimsTito