A FORMER Italian football star has been found dead in mysterious circumstances after suddenly going missing.

Christian Jidayi, 38, was discovered in a forest by police investigating his disappearance with a probe into his tragic death now underway.

Ex-footballer and coach found dead in woods as club pays tributeFormer Italian football star Christian Jidayi, 38, has diedCredit: Jam Press Ex-footballer and coach found dead in woods as club pays tributeJidayi’s body was found in a forest after he suddenly went missingCredit: Jam Press

Jidayi spent 11 years playing as a professional in the Italian leagues including a brief stint in the Serie A for Novara in the 2011-12 season.

Playing as a dependable right-back, Jidayi also starred for Cesena, Pro Patria and Forli.