Borussia Monchengladbach youngster Jordi Bongard passes away aged 20

Borussia Monchengladbach have paid tribute to Jordi Bongard after the 20-year-old tragically passed away following a car accident.

Bongard initially joined Gladbach aged 12 and progressed right up to the Under-23s, as well as representing Germany at youth levels.

However, the centre-back lost his life on Thursday morning following a car accident, with Gladbach issuing a statement on social media.

"Borussia mourns the death of U23s player Jordi Bongard, who unfortunately died in a car accident last night," the statement reads.

"We would like to send our deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.

"Jordi will forever be in our thoughts and in our hearts!"

Borussia subsequently confirmed that scheduled press conferences and training sessions for both the development teams and senior squad have been cancelled.

The club's sporting director Roland Virkus said: "We received this terrible news this morning and we are stunned. Our deepest sympathy and our thoughts are with Jordi's family."

Tributes from Bundesliga clubs have continued to come in with Wolfsburg posting: "This truly hurts. We extend our sincerest condolences to Jordi's family, friends and everyone at Gladbach."

FC Cologne replied to Borussia's Tweet and said: "The #effzeh family are shocked and in mourning over Jordi Bongard's passing. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone at Gladbach in this difficult time."

Mainz said: '"We are shocked and saddened by this terrible news. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jordi's family at this difficult time."

Hertha Berlin added: "Everyone at Hertha sends their thoughts and condolences to Jordi Bongard's family, friends and teammates."

Bongard made 74 appearances for the Gladbach's youth side, scoring nine goals and signed a professional contract just last summer, tying him to the club until 2024.