A former Valencia star, 28, has died as a result of flooding in Spain.
Spain has been hit by freak flashing flooding, which has been dubbed as Spain’s worst natural disaster in a century. Valencia has been among the cities most affected by the floods, with the total death tally at least 158 at the time of writing, with fears it will climb higher.
Jose Castillejo, a midfielder, is one of those to have lost their life. As a youngster, Castillejo was in Valencia’s academy and played for the club up to U19s level.
In a statement, Valencia said: “Valencia CF mourn the passing of José Castillejo, casualty of the flash floodings. José Castillejo came up through the [club’s] youth system up to U18 level and played for others teams in the region.”
Eldense, another one of his former clubs, added: “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.”
(Image: Twitter)
While he never made the grade at Valencia, Castillejo went on to turn out for Eldense, Bunol, Recambios Colon, Roda, Torre Levante and Villamarxant.
“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.”
Flash flooding has brought the region to a standstill. Valencia had been due to take on Paria Escuela in the Copa del Rey, but that has been since postponed due to the flooding. While a Formula E event scheduled to take place in Valencia has also been postponed.
Residents have described the nightmare scenes to the local press – with admitting that all locals now “know someone who has died”.
The Valencian president has called on Spain’s army to distribute aid and help with clearing the wreckage caused by the floods.
“The government informs me that tomorrow at 8 in the morning a first wave will join to work during the day,” he said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.