Barcelona pair Cesc Fabregas and Gerard Pique have paid tribute to former Sporting Gijon manager Manuel "Manolo" Preciado.

The 54-year-old passed away from a heart attack just one day after agreeing to become Villarreal's new boss.

Fabregas wrote on Twitter: "I can't believe the bad news I just woke up with. Hugs for the family of Manolo Preciado. RIP my friend."

Pique also took to the social networking site and said: "A big hug to the family of Manolo Preciado. He is one of the greats of the sport. Rest in peace."

Preciado spent six years at Gijon but decided to leave for Villarreal following his club's relegation from La Liga this season.