Fans of the MLS are in mourning following news that budding FC Cincinnati star Marco Angulo has passed away at the age of 22.

The defensive midfielder was on loan at the club from LDU Quito of his native Ecuador. The youngster was a passenger in a car that crashed into a metal barrier in Ecuador on October 7.

He was left with serious head injuries and a lung contusion, but El Universo newspaper reports that after being placed in an artificial coma, he passed away from his injuries on Monday night.

Two other passengers, Robert Cabezas Simisterra and Victor Charcopa Nazareno, both 22, were also killed in the crash.

“FC Cincinnati are heartbroken to share that Marco Angulo passed away Monday night after a battle with injuries sustained in an accident last month,” the team said in a statement on Tuesday morning.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Marco – a husband and father, a brother and son, a friend and teammate. He was a joyful, kind young man who lit up every room he entered. Our entire club grieves this tragedy, and we are thinking of and praying for his family. He was a cherished member of the FC Cincinnati family, and he will be missed.

“Marco is survived by his wife and young son.”

Angulo’s budding career

In 2024, Angulo played in 18 matches while recording no goals or assists. However, the 22-year-old was a valuable substitute for the MLS side and was expected to have a bigger role upon his return to Quito.

He made two appearances for Ecuador, his latest coming a 2-1 win over Australia in March 2023.

“With profound pain and sadness, we regret to inform the passing of our beloved player Marco Angulo,” LDU Quito said in a statement posted on social media.

“His departure is an irreparable loss that will leave an indelible mark in our hearts.”