Popular Brazilian footballer, Jeferson Merli, has tragically passed away at the age of 27 after drowning while swimming with his girlfriend.
According to MailOnline, the incident occurred in the Homem River in Terras de Bouro, located in the north-west region of Portugal.
Witnesses say Merli vanished underwater around 6:00 p.m., and despite immediate search efforts, his body was not recovered until approximately 9:30 p.m..
Paying tributes to him, his club wrote in a statement: “Jeferson, who had recently renewed his contract with our club, leaves us not only his dedication on the pitch, but also the friendship, professionalism, and team spirit that always defined him.
‘In this moment of grief, GD Caldelas expresses its solidarity and extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Our club will never forget his commitment and the mark he left on all of us.
‘Rest in peace, Jeferson.’
