Footballer, 27, found dead after 'vanishing' on swim as girlfriend rang for help

Footballer Jeferson Merli has died

A 27-year-old goalkeeper has been found dead in a river after he went for a dip with his girlfriend.

Jeferson Merli vanished beneath the surface shortly after entering the water at about 6pm on Saturday (2 Aug). His girlfriend immediately called emergency services but his body was only recovered at 9:30pm.

He is believed to have drowned. The tragedy unfolded at the Homem River in Terras de Bouro, in north-western Portugal.

Merli lived in Braga, about a 40-minute drive away, and played for GD Caldelas, based in nearby Amares.

The club, which competed in the AF Braga Div. Honra Série A last season, paid tribute in a heartfelt statement.

It read: "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."

Originally from Vista Alegre do Alto, in Brazil’s São Paulo state, Merli moved abroad in 2019 after playing for União in Mato Grosso do Sul.

Jeferson Merli was found dead in a river

He later joined clubs in Spain and Portugal, signing with Caldelas in 2024, as reported by NeedToKnow.

The club added: "Our club will never forget his commitment and the mark he left on all of us.

"Rest in peace, Jeferson."