Spanish Footballer José Antonio Reyes Has Died

Spanish football player José Antonio Reyes has died.

The ex-Arsenal midfielder died following a 'traffic collision', according to another of his former clubs, Sevilla.

Posting the tragic news to their official Twitter account, the club said: "We couldn't be confirming worse news. Beloved Sevilla star José Antonio Reyes has died in a traffic collision. Rest in peace."

The club's director Ramón Rodrígue said: "News that's impossible to believe, impossible to take in, my god it's tough... RIP José Antonio Reyes... What a left flank you and Antonio (Puerta) will make up there."

Since news of the 35-year-old's sad passing was reported, fans and players have been sharing their tributes on social media.

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Ex-Gunner Thierry Henry said: "I'm devastated to hear the sad news about José Antonio Reyes. Wonderful player, superb team mate and exceptional human being. I wish his family and friends continued strength and courage to get through this difficult time. #takenfartoosoon."

A spokesperson for Atlético Madrid said: "The Atlético de Madrid family is in mourning. Our former player José Antonio Reyes has passed away. You will forever be in our hearts. Rest in peace."

Arsenal Football Club tweeted: "Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news that our former player Jose Antonio Reyes has died in a traffic collision in Spain.

"Jose Antonio Reyes: 1983-2019. Rest in peace, Jose."

German club Borussia Dortmund also shared their condolences, writing: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and teammates of Jose Antonio Reyes. Rest in Peace."

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Reyes spent three years at Arsenal, signing for the London club in 2004, before going on to play for Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid and Espanyol.

Among a list of major honours he won during his career, including the FA Cup, Reyes lifted the Europa League on five occasions: twice with Athletico and another three times with Sevilla.

He was also capped by his country 21 times and most recently spent several months playing for Spanish second division side Extremadura.

Rest in peace.

Topics: World News

Dominic Smithers

Dominic graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in French and History. Like you, Dom has often questioned how much use a second language has been. Well, after stints working at the Manchester Evening News, the Accrington Observer and the Macclesfield Express, along with never setting foot in France, he realised the answer is surprisingly little. But I guess, c'est la vie. Contact us at [email protected]

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