Fiorentina Captain Davide Astori Dies Aged 31 Leaving Italy Football in Bitter Shock

London, March 4: Italy international and ACF Fiorentina captain Davide Astori passed away at the age of 31 on March 4, 2018. Astori was staying in a hotel with his teammates ahead of their game with Udinese at the Stadio Friuli, which was subsequently called off, The Guardian reports.

"Fiorentina are profoundly shaken and forced to announce that their captain Davide Astori has died," the club said in a statement. The statement further read, "For this terrible and delicate situation, and above all out of respect for his family, we appeal to the sensitivity of the media."

The football world was shocked by the footballer's sudden demise and expressed grievances on the social media.

Official page of Everton FC tweeted, "The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with the family of @acffiorentina captain Davide Astori following the very sad news of his death."

AS Roma wrotes, "The club is devastated to learn of the death of Davide Astori. The thoughts of everyone at AS Roma are with the player's family, friends and teammates at this terrible and tragic time."

UEFA's tweet reads, "Our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of @acffiorentina captain and Italian international Davide Astori, who passed away suddenly last night."

AS Roma footballer Edin Dzeko offered his condolences, "Incredibly sad news. My thoughts are with the family, friends and all at @acffiorentina Rest in peace Davide #Astori."

Liverpool FC's message reads, "We’re saddened by the passing of Fiorentina captain Davide Astori. Our condolences are with his friends and family. RIP Davide."

Astori, who made 14 appearances for Italy, joined Fiorentina in 2016 from Cagliari and had made 58 appearances for the club. The defender enjoyed a 12-year career in Serie A league having started his career at AC Milan before joining Cagliari in 2008.