The football world is in mourning following the tragic death of Guo Jiaxuan, an 18-year-old Chinese defender who passed away just hours before his 19th birthday. Guo, a former member of Bayern Munich’s prestigious World Squad, succumbed to the effects of a severe head injury sustained during a training match in Spain on February 6, 2025. His death has sent shockwaves through the sport, leaving his family, teammates, and fans devastated.
Guo Jiaxuan was a rising star in Chinese football, known for his talent and determination on the pitch. A centre-back, he joined Bayern Munich’s World Squad in 2023, a program designed to nurture promising young players from around the globe and provide them with a platform to pursue professional football. As the only Chinese player selected that year, Guo showcased his potential alongside other international talents, earning recognition for his skill and dedication. He also represented China at the Under-17 national team level, further solidifying his reputation as a bright prospect for the future.
The fatal incident occurred during a training match against Spanish side RC Alcobendas in Madrid, organized by the Beijing Football Association. Reports indicate that Guo was struck in the head by an opposing player’s knee during a challenge, causing him to lose consciousness immediately. He was rushed to a hospital in Madrid, where doctors diagnosed him with a subarachnoid hemorrhage—a rare and life-threatening type of stroke caused by bleeding on the brain’s surface. Despite intensive medical efforts, Guo was declared brain-dead shortly after the incident, a heartbreaking prognosis confirmed by his brother via social media.
Following the diagnosis, Guo’s family fought to bring him back to China for further treatment, refusing to give up hope. He was transported to Beijing Tiantan Hospital, where he remained on life support. However, on March 19, 2025, his condition deteriorated, and he was pronounced dead the following day, just one day shy of his 19th birthday. His brother shared an emotional tribute on the Chinese social media platform RedNote, posting a black-and-white photo of Guo with the caption: “He’ll forever be frozen on the last day of his 18th year.”
Bayern Munich, where Guo trained as part of the World Squad, released a heartfelt statement on Thursday: “FC Bayern is mourning the passing of Guo Jiaxuan, the former World Squad player who has died at the age of 18 in his native China. He succumbed to the effects of a serious head injury following a tragic accident during a training match in Spain on 6 February. The club’s thoughts are with his family and friends.” The club highlighted Guo’s contribution to the 2023 World Squad, emphasizing his role in inspiring young talents worldwide.
Guo’s last club, Beijing Guoan, where he had played since the age of 13, also expressed profound sorrow. “We have lost a child who loved football,” the club said in a statement. “May Jiaxuan rest in peace. The club will continue to do its utmost to deal with the consequences appropriately and provide all necessary help and support to Guo Jiaxuan’s family.”
The tragedy has raised questions about player safety and medical support during youth training camps. Guo’s family reportedly accused the Beijing Football Association and Beijing Guoan of failing to cover his medical expenses or provide adequate insurance for the trip to Spain, according to the South China Morning Post. The Beijing Football Association responded, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. As long as there is even a glimmer of hope, we will not give up and will do everything we can for the follow-up work.” The organization later confirmed that it had covered hospital costs in Spain and arranged Guo’s transport back to China, though treatment costs in Beijing remained a point of contention.
RC Alcobendas, Guo’s opponents during the ill-fated match, offered their condolences last month: “We want to express our deep concern for the player from the Beijing Football Association delegation who suffered an accident during the friendly match played against our first team. We send all our support to him, his family, and his team at this difficult time.”