Wolfsburg Junior Malanda dies in a car crash

Wolfsburg’s 20 year old midfielder Junior Malanda dies in a car crash. He made 15 appearances for the club this season and was a Belgium U-21 international as well.

Wolfsburg sporting director Klaus Allofs said in a statement: "We are all deeply saddened and our disbelief can hardly be put into words.

"We can't believe he is no longer with us. Our thoughts at this difficult time are with his family and loved ones."

Allofs added: "He was the good spirit of our team and a fun-loving person. In addition, Junior was an excellent football player who was only at the very beginning of his development."

"It was no easy decision," Allofs said. "This would also have been in the spirit of Junior.”

Allofs added that they will arrange a proper funeral for their starlet where they will mourn with his fans.

"We want to keep going, professionally, also for him. We will meet with fans [on Sunday] and say goodbye together."

His teammates from club and country pored in with rich tributes in remembrance of their friend and teammate.

Wolfsburg team-mate Kevin de Bruyne wrote on social media: "So strange to hear your friend in the morning and then hear this news. Lost a great friend way too early. RIP my friend. You will always be around."

Another team-mate, Nicklas Bendtner, said: "Not only a great player, but a great person. My thoughts and prayers will always be with you and your family brother. Your kind heart was rare and special. You will always be remembered."

Chelsea's Thorgan Hazard, who played with Malanda at Zulte Waregem, said: "Whyyyyy??? I love you brooo."

Everton and Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku said: "I love you my brother.

"Junior, why you are my brother….my brother, one of my only and unique friends, I cannot believe you are not there anymore."

Malanda's fellow Belgian Thibaut Courtois, the Chelsea goalkeeper, said: "RIP @JuniorMalanda!! We lose a huge talent and a great person!!"

The Royal Belgian Football Association wrote: "The world of football has lost a great talent today. URBSFA sends its condolences to his family & friends #ripmalanda."