Mexican football is in mourning after former Deportivo Toluca goalkeeper Pablo Jurado Serafin died at the age of just 22.
The shot-stopper’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through Liga MX and his boyhood club, where he came through the ranks after joining in 2019, The Sun reported.
Serafin had been hunting for a new team since being released in the summer of 2024, with his death confirmed just days after his 22nd birthday.
Deportivo Toluca released a heartbreaking statement in the wake of the tragedy as tributes poured in for the youngster.
A club spokesman said: “Those of us at Deportivo Toluca deeply regret the passing of Pablo Jurado Serafin, a former goalkeeper of our institution.
“We send our condolences and best wishes to his friends and family.”
Serafin established himself as a “key part” of the club’s youth set-up, featuring for the under-17s, U20s and U23s during his development.
He also enjoyed a brief spell on the books of Club Valle de Bravo before returning to his boyhood club to continue his development.
But Serafin was not handed a senior debut and was let go by the coaching staff when his youth career came to an end.
Mikel Arriola, president of the Mexican Football Federation, has paid tribute on social media.
In a statement posted on X, he said: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pablo Jurado Serafin.
“My condolences and solidarity go out to his family during this time of profound sorrow.
“I hope they find peace and strength in the face of this irreparable loss.”
Liga MX added: “We deeply regret the sensitive passing of Pablo Jurado Serafin.
“We join in the sorrow that overwhelms family and friends. May he rest in peace.”
The cause of Serafin’s death has not been publicly disclosed.
This story was originally published by The Sun and was reproduced with permission.
