Nico Hidalgo dies aged 32 as former Juventus midfielder sadly loses cancer battle

Hidalgo, who was once on the books of Juventus, sadly lost his battle with lung cancer at the age of 32. The Spanish midfielder was forced to retire in 2022 due to his condition while he was playing for now-defunct club Extremadura.

Hidalgo was given a tribute by former club Granada in their game against Malaga in August 2022 after his retirement. The Spanish side confirmed his passing on Saturday.

“Nico Hidalgo left us on March 1, 2025 at the age of 32,” a statement read. “Behind him is an undeniable example of struggle and sacrifice, as he already showed at Granada Club de Fútbol , an entity that he defended between 2012 and 2016, making his debut with the first team.”

The statement added: “With Nico’s departure, not only is an excellent footballer gone, but also a great person. But the affection of his teammates, coaches, workers, directors and fans will always be present.”

Spanish side Cadiz, where Hidalgo played between 2016 and 2019, posted a tribute saying: “Nico Hidalgo has left us. We will never forget your smile and your joy. Your struggle is our example. Rest in peace.”

Hidalgo’s last club, Extremadura, also posted saying: “This morning we woke up to the sad news of the death of Nico Hidalgo, former Extremadura UD footballer, at the age of 32 due to lung cancer which he had been fighting since 2021. From [everyone at] CD Extremadura, we would like to express our deepest condolences to his family and friends. We send them all our love and strength in these difficult times.”

Racing Santander, where Hidalgo made 73 appearances, offered their ‘most sincere condolences’ for this ‘irreparable’ loss and announced they would observe a minute’s silence before their next match on Sunday against Elche.