Club pays tribute to ‘dedicated’ and ‘beloved’ goalkeeper Jeferson Merli
The football community is mourning the tragic loss of 27-year-old goalkeeper Jeferson Merli, who died over the weekend in a drowning incident while swimming with his girlfriend.
Merli, who played for GD Caldelas in Portugal, disappeared beneath the waters of the Homem River in Terras de Bouro, located in the country’s northwestern region. The accident occurred around 6 p.m. on Saturday, when he reportedly vanished while swimming. Emergency services were called immediately, but his body was not recovered until approximately 9:30 p.m.
Originally from Vista Alegre do Alto in São Paulo, Brazil, Merli had been living in Braga, roughly 40 minutes from the river.
In a heartfelt statement, his club GD Caldelas honored his memory:
“Jeferson, who had recently renewed his contract with our club, leaves us not only his dedication on the pitch, but also the friendship, professionalism, and team spirit that always defined him.
In this moment of grief, GD Caldelas expresses its solidarity and extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Our club will never forget his commitment and the mark he left on all of us.
Rest in peace, Jeferson.”
Merli began his career in Brazil, playing for União in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul after moving overseas in 2019. He later played for clubs in Spain and Portugal, joining GD Caldelas in 2024.