Juventus’ Bryan Dodien, 17, dies from cancer two years after touching Paul Pogba praise
Posted Sunday, September 05, 2021 by Dailystar.co.uk
Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has paid tribute to Juventus teenager Bryan Dodien, who has sadly passed away at the age of just 17, it has been confirmed
Football is in mourning following news on Saturday that Juventus starlet Bryan Dodien has died from cancer at the age of just 17, two years after Paul Pogba praised his brave fight and Under-15s debut.
Bryan was diagnosed in 2015 aged 12, with Manchester United star Pogba sending supportive messages to the youngster throughout his brave fight against the disease.
The Frenchman dedicated a goal to Bryan after netting in a Turin derby for Juventus in 2015, revealing a shirt which read: "Bryan I am with you."
A year later, Pogba invited the teenager into the Juve dressing room as they celebrated winning another Serie A title following a 5-0 defeat of Sampdoria.
Paul Pogba sent supportive messages to Bryan Dodien throughout his battle with cancer
The pair posed for pictures, displaying their close bond as Bryan continued to undergo treatment.
He was given the all-clear just before Christmas 2018 and was re-registered by Juventus a month later.
Pogba congratulated his midfield protege in 2019 after he joined the Old Lady's Under-15s.
Bryan joined Juventus' Under-15s in 2019
Pogba dedicated his goal in the Turin derby to Bryan
The 28-year-old posted an upbeat clip with a touching message, calling the youngster an inspiration.
It included the words: "So proud of you my friend. Merci for being an inspiration to me and so many others."
Sadly, it was announced on Saturday that Bryan had tragically passed away at the age of just 17.
His passing was greeted with messages of condolence from the football community - including pal Pogba.
Pogba called the youngster an "inspiration"
Writing on Twitter, Pogba said: "The saddest of news. My thoughts and prayers are with all of your close ones.
"Losing a loved one is never easy but I’ll never forget you.Hai lottato tanto, sei stato forte, un esempio per tutti.
"Ciao piccolo amico mio. RIP Bryan, you will be missed."
Juventus FC Youth echoed Pogba's touching words.
They tweeted: "Juventus tightens in pain with Bryan Dodien's family."
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