Santiago Garcia: Uruguay Footballer Found Dead In Apartment

Godoy Cruz and Uruguay footballer Santiago "Morro" Garcia was found dead in his apartment in Mendoza, Argentina on Saturday.

Garcia's death was confirmed by his club Godoy Cruz in a statement.

The Argentine and Uruguayan football associations, as well as South American Football Confederation president Alejandro Dominguez, also sent their condolences.

"We have to confirm the regrettable news about Santiago Garcia," said Godoy Cruz.

"Everyone at the club feels completely distressed."

The cause of death was not yet clear as at the time of publishing this report.

Local news report indicates that Garcia, 31, was being treated for personal problems and depression.

The striker, who played for Uruguay at under-20 level, also featured for local clubs Nacional and River Plate, as well as Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense and Kisimpasa of Turkey.

Garcia signed for Godoy Cruz in 2016 and was the club's top scorer in the 2017-18 Argentine league season.

Santiago ‘Morro’ Garcia dead: Former club, Nacional pays tribute to striker

Nacional paid tribute to their former player on Twitter, writing: "There are no words or consolation.

"Immense grief for the death of one of the most beloved players and fans in Nacional's recent history.

"We all cry for 'El Morro'."

No hay palabras ni consuelo.
Inmenso dolor por la muerte de uno de los jugadores e hinchas más queridos en en la historia reciente de Nacional.
Todos lloramos por “El Morro” #QEPD pic.twitter.com/rMKflHnwnT

— Nacional (@Nacional) February 6, 2021

Garcia scored 34 goals during his two spells with Nacional and won two league titles with the club, which is based in Montevideo.

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The player was tipped for greatness after ending the final season of his first stint with Nacional as the Uruguayan Primera Division top scorer with 23 goals in 28 games.