Tito Vilanova has stepped down as coach of Barcelona after he suffered a tumour relapse.
Vilanova, 44, previously suffered from cancer and had a parotid gland removed in November last year.
Barça have already contacted their first-choice candidate to replace him on an interim basis for the remainder of the season, according to reports in Spain.
The Blaugrana's regular Wednesday press conference was cancelled this morning. A further statement will be announced later today.
Vilanova was promoted from assistant to head coach in the summer after Pep Guardiola left following four trophy-laden years at Camp Nou.
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Barcelona are nine points clear of second place Atlético Madrid in the Primera Liga while rivals Real Madrid are a mammoth 13 points adrift.