Christian ‘Chucho’ Benítez dies at 27 Video | Birmingham Striker

The Ecuador striker Christian Benítez died on Monday morning after suffering a cardiorespiratory arrest, less than a month after signing for Qatari club Al Jaish.

Benítez was admitted to hospital with severe stomach pain hours after making his debut against Qatar Sports Club in the Sheikh Jassem Cup but died shortly afterwards. He was 27.

Benítez joined Al Jaish earlier in July from Club America, after previous spells with El Nacional, Santos Laguna and Birmingham.

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

“Benítez, 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 Benítez.

“May he rest in peace.”