Footballer, 24, found dead after night out with teammates

His club have announced his death.

Swiss third division side FC Granges-Paccot have confirmed the heartbreaking death of Jakov Jelkic.

In a statement posted to Instagram, the club wrote: "It is with great sadness that we learned of Jakov’s passing. All our thoughts go to his family, friends, teammates 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."

Jelkic had travelled to the Spanish port of Alicante with his team to take part in a football tournament.

He was apparently seen leaving a bar late on Sunday night. He then failed to return to his hotel, with staff reporting him missing and Jelkic’s family issuing a desperate appeal on social media to find him.

Police have now confirmed that his body was pulled from the waters of Alicante port on Monday evening at around 5:30pm, with his death considered accidental.

Jelkic had scored one goal for the club so far this season. Granges-Paccot currently sit sixth in the Swiss third tier after 11 games of the season.

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 offered their message of support. One wrote: "Forever in our hearts. Condolences to all the family, friends & team," while another added: "In support of the family, the players, and all his relatives, all my sympathy."