Guo Jiaxuan, a promising 18-year-old Chinese footballer, has tragically passed away following a severe head injury sustained during a training match in Spain. The incident occurred on February 6, 2025, during a friendly match between Beijing’s under-20 team and Spanish side RC Alcobendas in Madrid. Guo collided with an opponent, resulting in a traumatic brain injury that led to a coma.
Despite immediate medical attention and hospitalization in Madrid, Guo was declared brain-dead due to a subarachnoid hemorrhage—a rare type of stroke caused by bleeding on the brain’s surface. He was later transferred to Beijing Tiantan Hospital, where he remained in critical condition until his death on March 19, 2025, just one day before his 19th birthday.
Guo’s football journey included playing for Beijing Guoan’s under-19 team and representing China’s under-17 national team in 2023. He also participated in Bayern Munich’s World Squad project, an initiative aimed at developing global football talent. Bayern Munich expressed profound sadness over his passing, acknowledging his contributions to both their club and international football.
Following the incident, Guo’s family raised concerns about the handling of the situation by the Beijing Football Association and Beijing Guoan, alleging a lack of transparency and inadequate communication. They have sought detailed information regarding the circumstances of the injury, medical treatment received, and insurance coverage.
The football community mourns the loss of a young talent, with clubs and organizations extending condolences to Guo’s family and friends during this difficult time.
