Abidal’s operation was due to take place on Friday, but it has been rescheduled for Thursday. The 31-year-old’s career is now in serious danger and fellow professionals from around the world have been quick to express their sympathy. Some of the messages can be read below:
AS Roma Captain Francesco Totti on his official website
“He will soon go under the knife and this will be his greatest battle – greater than any football match. I can only wish Eric all the best, from the bottom of my heart. I hope he overcomes this and that he returns to the pitch better than ever.”
Barcelona President Sandro Rosell on Barca’s official club website
“Barca is 100 per cent behind Eric Abidal. The club will do everything within its power, and even more, to help his recovery. Health is above any other aspect of life. Abi, Barca loves you.”
Real Madrid Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo On Twitter
“I hope it all goes well with Abidal, and that he gets back soon. My friends Marcelo and Pepe told me today that they are also praying for Abidal.”
Barcelona Midfielder Xavi Hernandez To Reporters
“We all offer our support to Abidal. We are sure that he will overcome this disease. This has been the most difficult situation I’ve ever faced in my career.”
Real Madrid Midfielder Kaka On Twitter
“What sad news about Eric Abidal, tumor in the liver! Let's pray for him .. God bless!!”
Real Madrid also defied UEFA’s law of banning the right to put slogans on t-shirts. At the end of their Champions League match against Olympique Lyon on Wednesday night, Real Madrid players expressed their support for Abidal by showing a “Animo Abidal” message written on each one’s T-shirt. The Frenchman will undergo surgery at the BarnaClinic Grup Hospital Clinic of Barcelona at 16:00 CET.
