German footballer dies suddenly aged 22 as club left 'shocked' and tributes pour in
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German footballer Luca Meixner has died at the age of 22 after being found dead in his bed over the Christmas period, his club SSV Reutlingen has announced.
The midfielder, who had made 100 appearances for the German fifth-tier side, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 27, 2024.
The club confirmed the tragic news in a statement released on social media this weekend, leaving the football community in shock.
Meixner began his career in SSV Reutlingen's youth setup, progressing to the U17 side in 2017 before moving to the U19s two years later.
Luca Meixner has tragically passed away at the age of 22
He made his first-team debut in July 2021, featuring in a 3-0 victory against SV Zimmern in the Landespokal Wurttemberg.
The central midfielder went on to establish himself as a regular starter for the club, making his league debut the following month against FC Nottingen.
During his time with the first team, Meixner scored six goals in his century of appearances, including 22 matches this season.
SSV Reutlingen released an emotional statement, saying: "The entire SSV family is deeply shocked and stunned. His team-mates, all committees and employees mourn with Lucas' relatives and our thoughts are with his family, friends and companions."
The club added: "Last weekend we received the terrible news that our player Luca Meixner died unexpectedly on Friday, December 27th at the age of 22. We ask that you respect the privacy of Lucas' family during this difficult time."
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Meixner's final appearance for the club came on December 7, when he played 87 minutes in a 1-1 draw against TSG Balingen before the winter break.
Fellow fifth-tier club Sonnenhof Grossaspach shared their condolences, writing: "Our heartfelt condolences and lots of strength in this difficult time!"
Goppinger SV also expressed their support, posting: "Much strength to the entire club."
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SSV Reutlingen were previously a second-division club at the turn of the millennium, competing in Germany's second tier for three seasons between 2000 and 2003.
The club faced relegation in 2003, marking the beginning of their descent through the German football pyramid.
Their position dropped further in 2008 with the introduction of the new third-tier competition, 3. Liga, which saw Reutlingen fall another level.
The club now competes in the Oberliga Baden-Wurttemberg, where they have remained for the past nine seasons.
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