Ex-Valencia star dies in Spanish floods aged 28 as La Liga side pay tribute

Former Valencia youth player Jose Castillejo has tragically been killed after the Spanish city was hit by devastating flash floods this week. Tributes are pouring in for the 28-year-old midfielder, who is among the victims of the flooding local media has labelled Spain's worst natural disaster in a century.

At the time of writing, the number of lives lost has risen to at least 158, but there are fears the casualty total will increase in the coming days.

Shocking images and videos online have shown Valencia in a post-apocalyptic state after torrential rainfall struck large parts of eastern Spain on Tuesday.

And Castillejo, who spent his entire career in Spain before retiring in 2020, is among those who have passed away.

Valencia are among the clubs to have paid tribute, writing: "Valencia CF mourn the passing of Jose Castillejo, casualty of the flash floodings.

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

Castillejo left Valencia for Paterna in 2015 before spending stints at Eldense, Bunol, Recambios Colon, Roda, Torre Levante and Villamarxant.

Eldense added to Valencia's emotional tribute, stating: "Terrible news coming from the catastrophic DANA.

"CD Eldense deeply regrets the death at the age of 28 of Jose Castillejo, former blue-and-red player in the 2015/2016 season. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace."

A statement from Roda read: "We regret to announce the death of Jose Castillejo, who defended our shirt during the 18/19 season.

"Rest in peace, Jose. We will always remember you. We send our love to your family and friends."

Valencia were scheduled to play two fixtures this week, first against Paria Escuela in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday before Real Madrid in La Liga tomorrow.

However, both matches have been postponed due to the tragic situation that has unfolded in the city and wider region.

Heartbreaking images have shown hundreds of abandoned vehicles stuck in brown sludge, many piling on top of each other in piles of wreckage.

Over 1,000 soldiers from Spain's emergency rescue units are already stationed in Valencia to help civilians impacted by the disaster.

Carlos Mazon, Valencia's regional president, has requested further help from the Spanish military to recover people who remain trapped and support those already rescued.

"I have just requested the incorporation of the army and the available land, sea and air forces to reinforce the logistical tasks and the distribution of aid to the population," Mazon posted on X.