Former Spanish international and Arsenal forward José Antonio Reyes has died at the age of 35 following a tragic car accident on Saturday.
Reyes, who was playing for Spanish Segunda Division side Extremadura at the time, was confirmed deceased by his former club Sevilla, where he started his career as a 16-year-old and later returned to win multiple trophies.
The former Spain international was returning home to his wife and children after training with Spanish side Extremadura, whom he joined in January, when the incident happened on Saturday morning.
Reyes was killed, alongside his cousin, 23-year-old Jonathan Ryes, while another passenger, Juan Manuel Calderon, remains in intensive care.
He leaves behind two daughters, Noelia, five, and Triana, two, with wife Noelia Lopez and an 11-year-old son, Jose Antonio Jr, from a previous relationship.
Reyes’ hometown Utrera has declared there will be two days of mourning, and all flags in the town will be flown at half mast.
Key Career Highlights:
- Arsenal: He spent three seasons at the club (2004-2007) and was part of the legendary “Invincibles” squad, becoming the first Spaniard to win the Premier League title.
- Europa League Record: Reyes is the most successful player in the history of the competition, having won the Europa League five times – three with Sevilla and two with Atlético Madrid.
- Other Clubs: He also played for Real Madrid and Espanyol during his long career.
