The football world is mourning the sudden loss of Swiss third division footballer Jakov Jelkic, following a tragic incident in Spain. The 24-year-old was on a night out with his FC Granges-Paccot team-mates in Alicante before he reportedly went missing after exiting a nightclub.
The team had travelled to Spain to participate in a tournament. Reports claimed that Jelkic was seen leaving a bar before falling into the sea.
When he did not return to his accommodation, the hotel staff reported him missing, and his family launched a desperate appeal on social media to find him.
The worst fears were realised when police confirmed that Jelkic’s body was pulled from the waters of Alicante port on Monday evening around 5:30pm. His death has been considered as accidental.
Following the devastating news, FC Granges-Paccot released a touching tribute on Instagram. “It is with great sadness that we learned of Jakov’s passing. All our thoughts go to his family, friends, team-mates and all the people who knew him closely or from afar.
“His memory will remain forever engraved in our hearts. A friend, a teammate, an inspiration to us all. Rest in peace.”
There have been plenty of tributes since. Fellow Swiss side FC Schoenberg replied: “Dear friends of FC Granges-Paccot, we learned with great sadness the death of your player. In these difficult moments, FC Schoenberg wishes to send you and his family and relatives our deepest condolences. Football creates strong bonds beyond the pitch and today we share your pain.”
Fans also expressed support, with one commenting: “Forever in our hearts. Condolences to all the family, friends and team,” while another wrote: “In support of the family, the players, and all his relatives, all my sympathy.”
Jelkic had netted one goal for the club this campaign. Granges-Paccot find themselves sixth in Switzerland’s third division, having emerged victorious in four contests from their 11 matches.
This article originally appeared on The Mirror.