Former Valencia midfielder Jose Castillejo dies in Spanish floods
Castillejo developed through Valencia's academy, playing for the club up to the Under-19 level.
Valencia have paid tribute to their former player Jose Castillejo, who tragically lost his life at the age of 28 following devastating flash floods in the city.
Castillejo, a talented midfielder, developed through Valencia’s academy, playing for the club up to the Under-19 level.
He went on to have a career that included stints with Eldense, Buñol, Recambios Colon, Roda, Torre Levante, and Villamarxant.
“Valencia CF mourn the passing of José Castillejo, casualty of the flash floodings,” a statement read.
“José Castillejo came up through the [club’s] youth system up to U18 level and played for others teams in the region.”
His former club Eldense also paid a tribute to him. “Terrible news coming from the catastrophic DANA.
“CD Eldense deeply regrets the death at the age of 28 of José Castillejo, former blue-and-red player in the 2015/2016 season.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace.”
“We regret to announce the death of Jose Castillejo, who defended our shirt during the 18/19 season,” a statement from Roda read.
“Rest in peace, Jose.
“We will always remember you.
“We send our love to your family and friends.”
Valencia CF have shared footage of their players actively participating in the recovery efforts following the devastating floods in the city.
Maximiliano Caufriez, Jesús Vázquez, and Thierry Rendall were among those seen collecting food supplies at the club’s Mestalla Stadium, which has become a gathering point for local residents affected by the disaster.
The flash flooding has been described as Spain’s worst natural disaster in a century, with the death toll rising to at least 158 as of this writing, and fears that the number may increase.
In light of the severe impact of the floods, Valencia’s scheduled Copa del Rey match against Paria Escuela has been postponed.
Additionally, a Formula E event set to take place in Valencia has also been delayed.
“We have all been monitoring the tragic situation in Valencia, where flash floods have devastated the region and claimed many lives,” a statement from the sport’s governing body read.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these terrible events and we at Formula E are looking at how we can practically support the region during this awful time.
“Following consultation with local authorities, the FIA and our colleagues at Circuit Ricardo Tormo, we have decided not to proceed with our pre-season test in Valencia, planned for 4-7 November.
“While it may have been possible to go ahead logistically, it is important not to create any distraction or use valuable resources that are much better served supporting the local community.
“We have a number of Formula E team members who have been working on the ground in Valencia over the past week, and we want to personally thank them for everything they’ve done, and continue to do, to support the area.”
Read more: Ruud van Nistelrooy gives verdict on imminent appointment of Ruben Amorim
