Former Norwich City and Maidstone United midfielder, Devonte Aransibia has passed away at the age of 26, his family have confirmed.
Aransibia began his career with the Canaries and featured regularly for their youth teams during the formative stage of his career.
Unable to make a first-team breakthrough at his boyhood club, Aransibia enjoyed success at the non-league level with the likes of Potters Bar, Royston Town, Chelmsford, and Welling.
The London-born midfielder was part of the Maidstone United side that enjoyed an FA Cup adventure last season which saw them beat Ipswich Town en route to the fifth round.
Following his tragic passing, Aransibia’s family have set up a GoFundMe page.
A statement read: ‘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.
‘Dev was the embodiment of kindness and compassion, always ready with a warm smile.
‘His infectious laughter and generous spirit brightened every room he entered, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
‘Beyond his loving nature, Dev was a talented footballer whose passion and drive propelled him to great success on the pitch.’
The player’s father wrote a moving message on his own social media: ‘Hi guys it’s with a sad heart that I am informing you of the passing of my son Devonte.
‘He died on Sunday 9th Feb aged 26yrs. Love you son, I don’t know what to do without you.’
Friends and former team-mates have been quick to pay tribute to Aransibia, with midfielder Joe Boachie saying: ‘I can’t believe it. RIP Devonte.’
Another former team-mate in Jordan Greenidge added: ‘Rest in peace Dev.’
The player’s former manager at Tonbridge Jay Saunders said: ‘It’s devastating news. Devonte was just a good person and a very good footballer.
‘He was a quiet lad but a real nice kid. I’m just gutted for his family and everyone involved. I’m truly gutted.
‘You spend quite a lot of time with these lads and get to know them personally and it’s devastating news when you hear something like that.
‘He always looked so happy. When he was scoring goals, the smile on his face, I can picture it.’
Sam Cox, former coach at Tottenham and team-mate of Aransibia, posted a number of tributes of his own, saying: ‘Such sad news. RIP Devonte,’ as well as a message that read: ‘Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.’
He added another photo with Aransibia and his team-mates in a car: ‘Shared so many funny moments riding into training. Rest in paradise my brother Devonte. Gone too soon.’
Norwich paid a tribute of their own, announcing that the club will honour the passing of their former youth star ahead of Tuesday night’s clash with Preston in the Championship.
‘Everyone at Norwich City is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former academy player Devonte Aransibia, aged 26. Devonte joined the club’s academy setup in 2013, progressing through the youth age groups before departing in 2019.
‘Ahead of Tuesday’s evening Sky Bet Championship fixture against Preston North End 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.’
The London-born midfielder played a key role in Maidstone’s memorable FA Cup run last year, that saw them beat Ipswich Town to make the fifth round under manager George Elokobi.
He managed a goal and assist against his future club Chesham in the first round, setting the Stones off on their magical campaign, which came to an abrupt end against Coventry City.
Aransibia had a successful loan spell with Billericay Town prior to his departure from Norwich, before heading on his path through Non-League football which took him to the likes of Potters Bar, Royston Town, Chelmsford and Welling.
The 26-year-old began this season with Chesham, but would make only two appearances in the National League South.
