Christian Benitez dies at 27 years-old

The former Birmingham striker Christian Benitez has died at the young age of 27 years-old.

The Ecuador international had just joined the Qatari side El Jaish Sports Club and had previously spent the 2009-10 season at Birmingham from Mexican side Santos Laguna. Benitez had won 58 caps for his country and in 2010 he had returned to Santos Laguna as Birmingham had opted against a permanent deal.

The official cause of his death is unclear but El Jaish has supposedly sent their condolences to the family. He reportedly did not have any health problems and his sudden departure has been a shock for everyone who knew him.

Words to describe him such as “high moral character” have come from the club he was currently playing for even though he was only there for a short period of time.

Birmingham has paid their respects in a statement and will again do so in their Championship match against Watford. A statement from the club said: “The thoughts of all associated with the club are with Benitez’s family and friends at this very sad time. The Ecuador international was an immensely popular character during his time at the club.”

Many more players from the Premier League, past and present have paid their respects, picking up on his talents not able to believe he has died and at such a young age.

He is the son of Ermen Benitez, who is one of Ecuador’s all-time leading goalscorers.