Former Blues Star Passes Away Aged Just 27

Former Birmingham striker Christian Benitez has passed away in Qatar.

The 27 year old Ecuador international had just signed a three year deal with El Jaish earlier this month having had two seasons in Mexico.

El Jaish confirmed the news in a statement on their official website, but the cause of his death was not revealed.

The statement read: ‘The club would like to offer its sincere condolences to the family of the player.

‘Benitez had recently joined the club from Club America for three seasons. The player participated for the first time with the team during Sunday’s match against Qatar Sports Club in the Sheikh Jassem
Cup without complaining of any health problems.

‘His sudden departure is a big shock for each member of the technical and administrative staff. He was a player that over the short period he was here was regarded for his high moral character.’

Benitez was at St Andrews for a season in 2009 while on loan from Santos Laguna, he soon became a crowd favourite and was known as Chucho.

Vital Blues would like to offer our sincere condolences to his family.