Spanish coach dies after contracting coronavirus

Malaga-based youth coach Francisco Garcia has passed away at the age of 21 after testing positive for the coronavirus.

Deceased football coach Francisco Garcia Source: Twitter

The Spaniard had been plying his trade at Atletico Portada Alta and was found to be more vulnerable to the virus due to a pre-existing health condition.

Garcia's positive test came simultaneously with the unexpected news he had been suffering from a form of leukaemia for quite some time.

Spanish newspaper Malaga Hoy reports that Garcia had been diagnosed with both coronavirus and pneumonia and was unable to recover as a result.

"We want to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and close friends of our coach Francisco Garcia who has left us, unfortunately," Atletico Portada Alta said in a statement.

"Now what do we do without you, Francis?

"How are we going to continue conquering … in the league? We don’t know how, but we will surely do it for you.

"We will not forget you, rest in peace, phenomenon. Until forever."

Garcia is said to be the youngest victim of the virus outbreak, though that is still to be confirmed.