World Cup star dies aged 47 as icon pays tribute to 'unforgettable friend'

 Former World Cup star Jorge Bolano has tragically died at the age of 47.

It's reported that the former Colombian midfielder died of a heart attack after celebrating a family birthday in Cucuta, Colombia.

Bolano was rushed to a nearby clinic but doctors were unable to save him.

Former team-mates and fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to the former Serie A star. Bolano played at Parma with the legendary Gianluigi Buffon, who posted a tribute.

Buffon wrote: "Jorge was an unforgettable friend and team-mate, a constant in a locker room of extraordinary champions. We played and won together in the golden years of a great Parma.

"On the pitch he fought without sparing himself and, off the pitch, I fondly remember his kindness and humanity that made him an example for everyone.

"We will always carry you with us, rest in peace, my friend."

Bolano began his career in his native Colombia with Atletico Junior in 1993, where he spent six years before moving to Italy, joining Parma.

The midfielder and Buffon were part of the same Parma team that won the Coppa Italia in the 2001/02 season and qualified for the Champions League.

Bolano had loan spells at Sampdoria and Leece before signing permanently for Modena in 2007. He spent two years there before returning to his homeland with Cucuta Deportivo in 2010, later retiring in 2012.

He made 36 appearances for Colombia and scored one goal. Bolano was named in the squad for the 1998 World Cup.