LONDON (Sporting Alert) — Former Birmingham City striker Christian Benitez, who carried the nicknamed ‘Chucho’, has tragically died at the age of 27.
Benitez, who played in the Premier League during the 2009-10 season, was reportedly looking to make a return to EPL this season before deciding to join Qatari side El Jaish from Mexican team Club America earlier this month.
And it was El Jaish who confirmed that the Ecuador forward had died in a car accident.
“The club would like to offer its sincere condolences to the family of the player,” El Jaish said in statement released.
“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.”
Benitez played on loan for Birmingham City during the 2009 campaign, and he made 30 appearances at St. Andrew’s.
The strong frontman also made 58 appearances for Ecuador in the national setup.
