FC Cincinnati midfielder Marco Angulo died from injuries sustained in a car accident that occurred on October 7 in Ecuador.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Marco, husband and father, brother and son, friend and teammate,” read a statement from FC Cincinnati. “He was a cheerful, kind young man who lit up every room he walked into. Our entire club mourns this tragedy and we are thinking and praying for his family. He was a beloved member of the FC Cincinnati family and will be passed on.”
Roberto Cabezas, a youth teammate of Angulo who played for Club Deportivo Independiente Juniors in Ecuador, was also murdered.
Angulo, 22, was a passenger in the car that crashed into a metal barrier on the Rumiñahui highway southeast of Quito. Angulo, who signed for FC Cincinnati in December 2022 and was on loan this season at Ecuadorian side LDU Quito, suffered a lung contusion and serious head injuries. He was in an induced coma until he succumbed to his injuries on Monday night.
“Marco was a talented young midfielder for FC Cincinnati last season, helping the club capture the Supporters’ Shield before continuing his development on loan with LDU Quito in his native Ecuador,” read an MLS statement. “During this difficult time, we extend our condolences to Marco’s wife and son, as well as his entire family, friends, teammates and the football community. He will be greatly missed.”
Angulo also represented Ecuador in the youth and senior categories with the country’s Football Association and said in a statement that he “defended the colors of our country at every opportunity he had with his talent and dedication. Marco was not only an exceptional player, but also a great teammate. “It leaves a deep pain in our hearts.”