Footballer Devonte Aransibia dies aged 26
Midfielder Aransibia had spells at several non-league clubs, including Billericay, Chelmsford, Welling, Tonbridge, Maidstone and most recently Chesham.
Last updated 11th Feb 2025
Several clubs have paid tribute to former player Devonte Aransibia, who has died aged 26.
Aransibia joined the Norfolk club's academy in 2013 and progressed through the youth ranks before leaving after six years, having not made a senior first-team appearance.
"Everyone at Norwich City is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former academy player Devonte Aransibia, aged 26," a statement from the Canaries read.
"Ahead of Tuesday's evening Sky Bet Championship fixture against Preston at Carrow Road there will be a period of applause, whilst the club's players and staff will wear black armbands.
"All at the club pass on our condolences to Devonte's loved ones at this sad time."
Midfielder Aransibia went on to have spells at several non-league clubs, including Billericay, Chelmsford, Welling, Tonbridge, Maidstone and most recently Chesham.
Chelmsford City FC have paid their tributes: "Everyone at Chelmsford City Football Club is saddened to learn about the passing of our former player Devonte Aransibia.
"Our thoughts and condolences go out to Devonte's family, friends and teammates at this difficult time."
Tonbridge Angels Football Club say they are "deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Devonte Aransibia".
Devonte spent two spells with the club, joining initially on loan in November 2022 from Welling United. He made 32 appearances and scored seven times, leading to "other clubs seeking his services at the end of the season".
Tonbridge Angels Chair, Sophie Purves, has made the following statement on behalf of the club: “Everyone at Tonbridge Angels is utterly devastated by the tragic news of Devonte’s death. He was such a strong, talented footballer and a sensitive young man.
"We are grateful to have had the opportunity to have known and worked with him and he’ll never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with Devonte’s family and friends at this dreadful time.
Devonte joined Maidstone United in May 2023 and made 23 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals.
Director of Football, Bill Williams said: “We are shocked and saddened by the news of Devonte’s passing.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at what will be an incredibly difficult time for them.
“Although Devonte was only with us for a relatively short time, like all players past and present, he was welcomed into the Maidstone United family and all those who met him and watched him play will mourn the loss of someone so young.
A fundraiser, which has so far raised nearly £9000, has been set up for Devonte's family.
Written on the GoFundMe page, it says: "It is with heavy hearts that we come together to honour the life of Dev, a loving partner, devoted father, cherished son, and dear friend to so many.
"Together, we can ensure that Dev's memory lives on in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him in return."