Shock in Manchester City over the death of a 17-year-old former youth player | CNN

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(CNN) -

The death of a former Manchester City youth footballer, just 17 years old, has shocked the Premier League, where tributes have rained in recent hours.

Malawi-born Jeremy Wisten was a defender and reached the City youth ranks in 2016, according to PA Media.

The club confirmed Wisten's death in a statement issued Sunday.

“The Manchester City family mourns the passing of our former youth player Jeremy Wisten.

We send our deepest condolences to his friends and family.

Our thoughts are with you in these difficult times, "said the club.

Wisten's cause of death is unknown for now.

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Manchester Police were not available for comment when contacted by CNN.

Wisten's family has not spoken publicly.

Members of the Manchester City first team mourned the young man's death.

England national team player Raheem Sterling retweeted the City statement, accompanied by emojis of two praying hands and a rose.

For his part, French defender Aymeric Laporte commented: "Terrible news ... rest in peace, young man."

Furthermore, the English Football Association tweeted: "Rest in peace, Jeremy," while former Citizens player Trevor Sinclair wrote: "Rest in peace, Jeremy Wisten.

As I have said before: We need to take care of our generation during this difficult era of covid-19.

A fundraiser was started through a GoFundMe page, to support the Wisten family.

So far, the account has raised more than $ 10,000.

The description on the page says: «A beautiful soul, who had the love of so many.

Everyone who knew Jez would know she had a smile that lit up an entire room. "

You left too soon, but we will never forget you.

Always in our hearts.

We love you.

Rest in paradise, Jez.

Jeremy WistenMan CityManchester CityRaheem Sterling