On the eve of tomorrow’s home opener vs. archrival DC United, the Red Bulls got a surprise visitor at today’s practice: Barcelona head coach Tito Vilanova, who is undergoing cancer treatment in a nearby New York City hospital.
“It was an honor to have Tito here to observe one of our training sessions at the Arena,” Red Bulls head coach Mike Petke told the team’s website. “From shaking hands to speaking briefly, it’s just not the sort of thing you get to enjoy every day. It was definitely a pleasant surprise.”
Vilanova took over the la Liga giants this summer, replacing Pep Guardiola. But assistant Jordi Roura has been the interim basis after Vilanova was diagnosed with cancer, going on to have treatment and surgery.
After watching today’s practice, he spoke with Red Bulls captain and former Barcelona standout Thierry Henry, as well as Petke and other members of the front office.
“On behalf of the entire organization, we wish Tito all the best with his treatment and hope for a speedy recovery,” said Petke.