Former Sheffield United star Alex Sabella dies

South American media outlet La Nación is reporting that Sabella has passed away in hospital today, two weeks after he was admitted following a ‘cardiac issue’.

He was being cared for at the Buenos Aires Cardiovascular Institute.

Sabella, who was 66, was a popular figure among the Blades faithful having joined the Bramall Lane outfit in 1978.

He played more than 70 games for United in a two-year spell, scoring eight goals before he left for Yorkshire rivals Leeds United in 1980.

A tweet posted by United on Twitter this evening read: “Sheffield United are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player, Alejandro Sabella.

Rest in Peace, Alex.”

The former midfielder also played for Estudiantes and Gremio after returning to South America.

After hanging up his boots, he went into management and coached Argentina for three years from 2011 to 2014.

The highlight of his managerial career was leading his home country to the 2014 World Cup final in neighbouring Brazil, where they were beaten 1-0 by Germany after extra-time.

Sabella stepped down as manager shortly after the competition.

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