Ghanaian player Newton Opoku-Mensah, who plays for the German side Fortuna Dusseldorf, has tragically passed away in a swimming accident.

In a statement, Klaus Allofs, a board member of the club, confirmed the unfortunate incident and expressed condolences to the family.

“We are deeply shocked and cannot grasp this news. Newton was a young man who was living his dream and has now passed away far too early,” Klaus Allofs said in a club statement.

"Our sympathy and deepest condolences are with Newton's family and relatives, as well as with all his teammates and the entire team at our youth performance center.”

The incident took place on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, during a club event. Opoku-Mensah was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

The entire Fortuna Düsseldorf community is in shock and mourning over the loss of the young athlete.

Klaus Allofs, head of sports and communications at the club, expressed his condolences, stating, “Newton was a young man who lived his dream and has now died far too early. Our condolences and deepest sympathy go out to Newton’s family and loved ones, as well as all of his teammates and the entire team in our NLZ,”

Reports indicate that the club has suspended training and match operations for all youth teams ranging from U-9 to U-19 until further notice.

The 16-year-old Ghanaian prodigy was a vital part of the youth team and played a significant role before the tragic incident.

The family of the deceased has not yet made a public statement or provided further details regarding the incident.

Read the tweet below:

German club Fortuna Dussledorf announces the passing of U-17 player Newton Opoku Mensah 🇬🇭 #3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/pMh5egZ0I2

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) July 31, 2024