Pape Diouf, the former Marseille president, has tragically passed away after contracting coronavirus. The 68-year-old was being treated in hospital in his native Senegal.

Diouf made history by becoming the first black president of a first-tier European football club when he took charge of Marseille in 2005.

A statement from the French club read: “Olympique de Marseille learned with great sadness of the death of Pape Diouf.

“Pape will remain forever in the hearts of Marseillais as one of the great craftsmen of the history of the club.

“Our condolences to his family and loved ones.”

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Marseille’s former Newcastle ace Florian Thauvin paid tribute to Diouf, writing on Twitter: “Very sad to learn of the death of Pape Diouf… he will leave a unique memory in Marseille. Thoughts moved for his family and loved ones.”

Diouf arrived in the city of Marseille at the age of 18 and ended up taking on a career in football journalism.

He progressed into football agency before getting the top job at Marseille, one of the biggest clubs in France. He was replaced by Jean-Claude Dassier in 2009.

French football authorities paid tribute to Diouf after his death was announced.

A statement from the LFP read: “The Ligue de Football Professionnel has learned this evening with great sadness of the death of Pape Diouf at the age of 68.

“Journalist, agent, president of Olympique de Marseille from 2005 to 2009, Pape Diouf dedicated his whole life in service of football.

“A member of the LFP administrative council from September 2007 to June 2009, Pape Diouf will be remembered as a charismatic and passionate director.

“In this moment of immense sadness for French football, the LFP offers its condolences to his family and those close to him, and to Olympique de Marseille.”