Teenage footballer, 15, dies falling down a well after being chased by a pack of dogs

Youssef Khachroub was staying with his family at the Marrakech Golf City resort when the incident happened on New Year’s Eve. He had gone out for an evening run as part of his fitness routine.

According to his father, Mourad Khachroub, Youssef disappeared at around 7pm and was found several hours later at the bottom of a 50-metre well. It is understood the teenager, who played for FC Mougins near Cannes, had a fear of dogs.

His family have since filed a complaint against those responsible for the residential and construction area, claiming there were no proper warnings or safety measures around the well.

Khachroub Sr explained that the well may have seemed like a place of refuge to his child.

He said: “My son fell into it. I knew it when I found his running shoe on the edge. There was no security on that side.

“What happened is unacceptable. It’s an injustice.”

Khachroub also pointed to the lack of security staff and surveillance cameras in the area, saying better protection could have helped locate Youssef sooner.

FC Mougins described him as a “charming and endearing boy” who was loved by everyone around him, adding that his smile, kindness and spirit would not be forgotten.

A spokesperson for the club added: “It is with great sadness that we mourn the tragic death of Yousri, a player in our under-16 R2 team.

“The entire club – its chairmen, managers, coaches, volunteers, players and families – is deeply shocked and devastated by this news.

“At this painful time, FC Mougins sends its sincere condolences to his family, relatives, and all those who loved him. The club supports them and shares their grief. Rest in peace, Yousri.”

Youssef began his football journey at Stade Laurentin before spending several years in the academy at OGC Nice. He joined FC Mougins at under-14 level in 2023 and was in his third season with the club.