Spanish footballer dies aged 28 in Valencia floods

His former club have paid tribute to the player.

A Spanish footballer who came up through the Valencia academy has tragically lost his life in the flash floods that have devastated parts of the country.

At least 158 people are known to have died in the catastrophic event, which saw more than a year’s worth of rain fall in just eight hours in some areas.

The torrential downpours hit the south-eastern region of the country, with the town of Chiva near Valencia one of the worst-affected areas.

An estimated 491mm of rain fell in the area according to the Spanish Weather Service - Aemet.

Officials there have said it is “impossible” to know exactly how many people have perished so far.

Last night, Valencia CF, where Jose Castillejo rose to prominence as a midfielder, posted a tribute to their former player on their social media pages.

The statement reads: "Valencia CF mourn the passing of José Castillejo, casualty of the flash floodings,’ a statement from the La Liga giants read.

"José Castillejo came up through the [club’s] youth system up to U18 level and played for others teams in the region."

Castillejo played for Valencia’s various youth teams before representing other other clubs in the region including Torre Levante, Paterna, Eldense, Buñol, Recambios Colón and CD Roda.

Eldense have also released a statement expressing their condolences over the death of their former player, who wore their colours in the 2015-16 season.

That tribute reads: "We have received terrible news about the catastrophic flooding.

"CD Eldense deeply regrets the passing of José Castillejo at the age of 28, who was a blue-and-burgundy player during the 2015/2016 season. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends. Rest in peace."

Valencia’s game against Real Madrid on Saturday has been postponed with all games in the region to be rescheduled.