Christian Jidayi found dead: Former Novara defender dies aged 38

Former Novara and Cesena defender Christian Jidayi has been found dead aged 38 in Italy following a police search.

The ex-footballer’s body was discovered in a pine forest in Lido Adriano, near Ravenna, around midnight on Tuesday.

Jidayi, who was serving as an officer with the Provincial Police of Ravenna, had failed to report for his shift earlier that day.

Authorities launched a search after colleagues raised the alarm, eventually locating the 38-year-old via mobile phone tracking.

A career in Calcio

The right-back spent over a decade in Italian football, beginning his career with Cesena’s youth academy in 2005.

He went on to make appearances in Serie B and won the Lega Pro Prima Divisione title with Novara during the 2009-10 campaign.

Although part of the Novara squad that competed in Serie A in 2011-12, he did not feature in the top flight.

Jidayi’s most significant spell came at Forlì, where he featured heavily during the 2013-14 and 2014-15 seasons.

His former club paid tribute following the news.

“[We offer] heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones at this time of great grief.”
Forlì Football Club statement

Following his retirement in 2017, the Avellino-born defender briefly transitioned into coaching as assistant manager of San Marino Calcio.

He later joined the police force, transferring to the Ravenna division last July after passing his exams.

Local authorities confirmed an investigation into the circumstances of his death is currently under way.

He is survived by his family, including his older brother William, who also played professionally for Sassuolo and Padova.