The statement added: “Words are not enough to describe how we feel, although we have known that things did not go well for a while. Today is a very difficult day in the nearly 123-year history of Cercle Brugge.” Goalkeeper’s wife Kiana and daughter Kamil as well as his parents, sister, friends and family.
Van Damme was diagnosed with leukemia in 2016 and underwent several cycles of treatment for the cancer over a five-year period.
“Miguel, your perseverance and strength to keep going over and over again, setback after setback, has been fantastic. You are the epitome of positivity, perseverance and fighting spirit. An inspiration to all who fight. Forever in our Green Black No. 16 heart.”
“Dear, my dad left his last game last night, a match that can no longer be won. You left us too slowly, but you did it again your own way… too strong. You fought like a lion,” Kiana Doblery wrote.
“We are so grateful for who you were. An example to so many. You made me realize that there’s no such thing as giving up, even if there is only a small glimmer of success, I got over it over and over again. Rest now my dear, you have earned more, you are now freed from all pains.”