Former Barcelona star Abidal denies own death after social media rumours

Former Barcelona defender Eric Abidal has quashed social media rumours of his death, making it clear in a post on Instagram that he is alive and well.

There were claims this week that Abidal had passed away due to complications from the liver transplant he underwent in 2012. Abidal, 46, was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2011 but subsequently returned to football in 2013 after having the tumour removed and then undergoing a transplant.

Abidal’s post on his Instagram story read: “Some rumours should never exist.

“I’m here with my family and everything is fine. Respect is essential. There is a family and my children behind this.

“To be clear, I’m fine, I’m alive and well. Thank you for your support and messages of concern. Let’s focus on what really matters.”

Abidal played for Monaco, Lille and Lyon before moving to Barcelona in 2007. He won 15 trophies in his time at Camp Nou, including four LaLiga titles and two Champions League crowns. At international level, Abidal won 67 caps for France and was part of the side that reached the World Cup final in 2006.

After returning from his battle with cancer, he signed off his Barca career by lifting the 2012-13 LaLiga title. Abidal returned to Monaco and had a spell in Greece with Olympiacos before calling time on his playing career.