In a devastating turn of events, a 20-year-old African striker has passed away following a car accident abroad just three weeks after joining his new club in Europe.
Cypriot top-flight club EN Paralimniou has confirmed the passing of Nigerian footballer Paul Julius.
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The striker was involved in a car crash on Tuesday, with the tragic incident coming less than a month after he joined the club from Egyptian Premier League outfit El Gaish.
"It is with deep sadness and pain that we express our sincere condolences on the unexpected loss of our footballer Paul Julius," a statement by the club reads.
"The tragic news of his death has shocked us all. Despite the hardships and sufferings he faced to join our family, he remained steadfast and determined to fulfil his goals.
"His memory will live on in our hearts, and his absence will be felt. We are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May he rest in peace."
Julius' death occurred in the early hours of the morning on Tuesday, with police stating that he was driving on the Paralimni-Protaras road when his car collided with another vehicle travelling in the opposite direction, according to Cypriot outlet Philenews.
It is said the other car was driven by a 74-year-old driver, who escaped with his life and is now being treated in hospital, but is not in a critical condition.
Authorities have appealed to the public for witnesses of the crash, with investigators from the Famagusta Traffic Department pleading with anyone who has information to contact them.
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Unfortunately for Julius, his passing came before he could make his debut for his new team Paralimniou.