8 hours ago
Ex-Valencia star, 28, sadly dies in Spanish floods, as La Liga club release a statement.
Valencia has paid tribute to former footballer Jose Castillejo, 28, who died as a result of flash flooding.
"Valencia CF mourn the passing of José Castillejo, casualty of the flash floodings," read part of the statement. "José Castillejo came up through the [club's] youth system up to U18 level and played for others teams in the region."
Another of his former clubs, Eldense, paid their own homage. "Terrible news coming from the catastrophic DANA," the headline stated.
"CD Eldense greatly regrets the passing at the age of 28 of José Castillejo, a former blue-and-red player from the 2015/2016 season. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace.
Castillejo, a midfielder, attended Valencia's academy and competed for the club up to the Under-19 level. He then worked with Eldense, Bunol, Recambios Colon, Roda, Torre Levante, and Villamarxant.
"We regret to announce the death of Jose Castillejo, who defended our shirt during the 2018/19 season," a Roda statement read. "Rest in peace, Jose." We'll always remember you. We send love to your family and friends."
The flash flooding has been dubbed Spain's worst natural disaster in a century. The number of lives lost has risen to at least 158 at the time of writing, with fears it will climb higher.
Valencia had been due to take on Paria Escuela in the Copa del Rey. However, that fixture was postponed amid the severe impact of the floods
A Formula E event scheduled for Valencia has also been postponed. "We have all been monitoring the tragic situation in Valencia, where flash floods have devastated the region and claimed many lives," the sport's governing body stated. "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these horrible events, and Formula E is looking into how we can practically help the region during this difficult time.