Ecuador international Christian Benitez passed away on Monday age 27, his club El Jaish have confirmed.

The former Birmingham, Santos Laguna and Club America striker, nicknamed Chucho, who just completed a move to the Qatari outfit from Club America passed away before making his debut, though there are conflicting reports as to how he died.

El Jaish released a statement confirming the news. It said: 'The club would like to offer its sincere condolences to the family of the player.

'Benitez had recently joined the club from Club America for three seasons. The player participated for the first time with the team during yesterday's match against Qatar Sports Club in the Sheikh Jassem Cup without complaining of any health problems.

'His sudden departure is a big shock for each member of the technical and administrative staff. He was a player that over the short period he was here was regarded for his high moral character.'



Ecuadorian team-mate Antonio Valencia of Manchester United expressed his condolences having been informed of Benitez's death.

"You'll always be my brother. This pain is hard, my brother, but we love you," the winger, who also played alongside the 27-year-old at El Nacional, posted on Twitter.

Cleber Chala, another former team-mate of Benitez's at El Nacional, tweeted: "You will live in our hearts forever, Chucho."

The ex-Santos Laguna and Birmingham City forward appeared 58 times for Ecuador during his career, scoring 24 goals.

The Doha-based club are yet to confirm the cause of Benitez's death.

http://futbolgist.com/2013/07/29/former-birmingham-striker-dies-at-27/

RIP

RIP to the guy...used to use him in my premier league fantasy football.
PS: Didn't they do a proper medical for him?

adaobi123: What a loss. RIP

as if you sabi am

@ Dunkinds don't be stoopid here, okay. What silly website are you talking about.


Benitez may your gentle soul rest in peace!

wow!
i know this dude - very exciting player. his nickname was chucho...

RIP, bro!!!

lucenzo: as if you sabi am

Stop stalking me please

R.I.P, dude

May his soul RIP.

This guy made me lose some serious money early this year playing for his country against Colombia..... Why did he have to score that goal?.. Rest in Peace Chucho.

adaobi123:

Stop stalking me please

RIP dude.. Pray u wil also enta first 11 team in Heaven!

lucenzo: as if you sabi am

She doesn't need to know him in order to pass such condolence. Moreover, 27 is too low an age to leave this world.

futbolman:

Grow up.

Why u sef quote am?

Chai I remembered his days in brammiham adieu ma dear. Chucho

futbolman:

Grow up.

Why must you quote such rubbish?

Rip my guy.I liked ur style of play.

R.I.P. God rest your prolific soul. Thanks for the goals you scored for me in Championship Manager.

Wat a bully striker in his days wit B/city,R.I.P

R.I.P...

Mods please, do your job.......

moderators please kindly ban that guy posting nonsense on this thread PLEASE!

chimerase2: Chai I remembered his days in brammiham adieu ma dear. Chucho

Holy ghost fire

chimerase2: Chai I remembered his days in brammiham adieu ma dear. Chucho

Holy ghost fire. Take am easy!