The Ecuadorian having had 58 Caps and scored 24 goals for Ecuador passed away in Qatar aged only 27 years old.

Christian Benitez starred for Birmingham FC

He is reported to have suffered from a cardiosrespiratory arrest having being admitted to hospital with stomach pains early in the day after his debut for new club Al Jaish (Qatar).
Christian Benitez was also a reported target for Tottenham, but signed for his new club in a reported deal worth approximately £12m.

An Ecuador Football Federation statement read: “The FEF regrets to inform you of the death of Christian Benitez, the striker of Qatar club Al Jaish and the Ecuador national team.

“Benitez, who was with his new club in Qatar, had a severe stomach pain, which was why he was rushed to a hospital, where after a few hours suffered he suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest, which ended his life.

“The Ecuadorian Football Federation extends its heartfelt sympathy to the family – parents, wife, children – and friends of our striker Christian Benitez. May he rest in peace.”

Christian Benitiez featured many times for the Ecuador National Team

In an earlier statement released by Al Jaish: “The club would like to offer its sincere condolences to the family of the player.

“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.”

Alex McLeish, Birmingham’s manager when Benitez was there, told Sky Sports News: “He was a very likeable guy and dangerous in the box.

Benitez was an award winner and a target for Tottenham FC

“He only scored thee goals and people thought we let him go because of that. I would’ve kept him but he went because we were trying to bring in some top players.

“That didn’t materialise and I was left cursing the fact we could’ve kept him for that season because I’m sure he’d have flourished in England.”

This is very sad news and I wanted to bring it to everyone’s attention. We at Football Deluxe offer our deepest sympathy to his family and friends. It is a shame that he was not able to see through his potential and his life was short lived. Please offer your respect for Christian.