Former Arsenal and Real Madrid star Jose Antonio Reyes, 35, dies in car crash

Ex-Arsenal striker Jose Antonio Reyes, 35, has died in a car crash, his former club Sevilla FC has confirmed.

Jose Reyes’ former teammates including Thierry Henry and Freddie Ljungberg say they are “numbed” and “devastated” by his death.

Posting an image of the club’s crest with a black ribbon, the club said on Twitter: “We couldn’t be confirming worse news. Beloved Sevilla star Jose Antonio Reyes has died in a traffic collision. Rest in peace.”

The Spaniard was the youngest player in Sevilla history to make his debut for the club, aged 16.

At the time of his death he was playing for Spain’s second division side Extremadura.

Reyes joined Arsenal in January 2004 and formed part of the iconic team who won the Premiership trophy without suffering any losses during what is now known as the club’s ‘invincible’ season.

Arsene Wenger signed Reyes for Arsenal. He told the club on Saturday: “I am devastated to hear the terrible news about Jose.

“To his family and friends, all support from everyone in the Arsenal family. He will remain forever in our hearts.”

Reyes also played for Real Madrid and Benfica during his career, winning 21 caps for Spain.

He helped take home five Europa League titles during his career, twice with Atletico Madrid in 2010 and 2012.

Former England footballer Gary Lineker shared his condolences on Twitter, writing: “How terribly sad. RIP.”

Former teammate Freddie Ljungberg said: “Numbed by the news about my former teammate, Jose Antonio Reyes. Gone far too soon, my thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry posted an emotional tribute, saying: “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.”

Arsenal FC also shared a heartfelt message, saying: “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.”

In a fuller statement, the Gunners added: “Our thoughts are with all his family, friends and teammates.

“Jose, who was part of the Invincibles team, was a hugely popular figure at our club and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

“He represented the club on 110 occasions, scoring 23 times and made memorable contributions to our 49-game unbeaten run.”

His former club Atletico Madrid tweeted: “The Atletico de Madrid family is in mourning. Our former player Jose Antonio Reyes has passed away. You will forever be in our hearts. Rest in peace.”

The Twitter account for the Fifa World Cup posted: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jose Antonio Reyes today. Reyes was a member of Spain’s 2006 World Cup squad. Our condolences and best wishes are with his loved ones. RIP.

Spain’s football federation also added their condolences.

UEFA’s Twitter account posted: “Everyone at UEFA is shocked & hugely saddened to learn that José Antonio Reyes has died aged 35. A Spanish international with 5 @EuropaLeague titles, Reyes will be sorely missed by the football world. Our thoughts are with his family & friends at this terrible time.” – news.sky.com