French striker Nathael Julan, killed in car accident, aged 23

French striker Nathael Julan has been killed in a car accident at the age of 23.

Julan had been plying his trade with Ligue 2 side Guingamp, although he had a loan spell at Valenciennes last year.

His death was confirmed by his club on Friday afternoon.

Julan, who is believed to have been on his way home from training, was involved in a car accident near the town of Saint-Brieuc with firefighters called to the scene.

Guingamp confirmed the news via a statement, saying: "The club had the immense pain of learning this afternoon of the accidental death of their player Nathael Julan. On this tragic day, all the members of the club join together to send their condolences to Nathael's family."

Julan came through the ranks at Le Havre before joining Guingamp in 2018. He featured regularly in Ligue 1 during his debut campaign before moving to Valenciennes on loan in January.

The striker returned to his parent club following their relegation to the second tier last summer. Tl

The official Ligue 1 account also paid tribute to the young striker, posting: "We would like to offer our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Nathaël Julan and Guingamp."

Guingamp were due to play in a friendly against Concarneau but the match has been cancelled following the devastating news.