BARCELONA hero Hugo Sotil has passed away 75.
The Peruvian was hospitalised earlier this month after experiencing a “health issue”.
Doctors placed Sotil in intensive care and did their best to improve his condition.
But the former striker was sadly unable to recover and passed away on Monday.
Barcelona announced his passing an emotional statement, an excerpt of which read: “On Monday 30 December Hugo Sotil passed away.
“Born in Ica in Peru on 18 May 1949, ‘Cholo’ as he was known, was considered one of the best South American players of his generation, and was a from fan favourites at Baraa during his time at the club.
“The striker came to Barça for the 1973/74 season from Peruvian club Municipal de Lima.
“Sotil was a vital part of a team that included legends such as Johan Cruyff, [Juan Manuel] Asensi, [Carlos] Rexach and Marcial [Pina].
“He became a favourite of the Camp Nou crowd who would chant “Cholooo, Cholooo” in his honour.”
A social media post from the club read: “FC Barcelona mourns the passing of Hugo Sotil, who played for Barca from 1973 to 1976, and offers its condolences to his family and friends.
“Rest in peace, Cholo.”
Scores of Barca fans responded to the X post to pay tribute to the late Sotil.
One wrote: “Rest in peace, legend.”
Another said: “”He wasn’t just talented on the field with his amazing dribbling and assists, loved by so many.
“Rest in peace, Cholo.”
Sotil joined Barcelona in 1973 from Peruvian side Deportivo Municipal and won a slew of trophies with the Catalan club.
He scored 29 goals in 96 appearances during his four years at the Nou Camp.
He formed an incredible partnership with the late Johan Cruyff, which is still talked about to this day.
Sotil had incredibly fond memories of his time with the club and the love he received from the Nou Camp faithful.
He said: “The love of the people of Barca is unforgettable.
“The day I die I hope they bury me in a Barca shirt.”
Barcelona will likely pay tribute to the late Sotil when they welcome Valencia to the Nou Camp on January 26.
