A skilled and pacey winger who played for top clubs like Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Sevilla, winning numerous titles including two Premier League and three UEFA Europa League trophies.
Spanish football fans still reminisce about the electrifying performances of José Antonio Reyes, the winger who dazzled audiences with his speed, skill, and goal-scoring prowess. With a career that spanned over two decades, Reyes etched his name in the annals of Spanish football history, winning numerous accolades and breaking records along the way.
Born in Utrera, Province of Seville, to Romani parents, Reyes joined the youth ranks of local Sevilla at the tender age of 10. His talent and dedication earned him a full contract in 1999, and he made his first-team debut at 16 against Real Zaragoza. Reyes's impressive display in the UEFA European Under-17 Championship, where he scored one goal in the group stage, caught the attention of scouts and coaches alike.
In January 2004, Reyes signed with English giants Arsenal, sealing a £10.5 million transfer deal that would rise to £17 million based on the team's success. During his stint in London, Reyes won the Premier League and FA Cup, making him one of the few players to have won major honors in both Spain and England.
In 2006, Reyes returned to Spain, joining Real Madrid on loan. His impressive form earned him a permanent move to Atlético Madrid, where he won the Europa League twice. Reyes's success continued with Sevilla, where he won the Europa League a record-breaking five times, cementing his status as one of the most decorated players in the competition's history.
Reyes earned 21 caps for Spain, representing his country in the 2006 World Cup. His contributions to Spanish football were acknowledged with numerous individual awards, including the UEFA Cup Top Scorer and the La Liga Best Spanish Player.
Reyes's life was marked by personal milestones, including his marriage to wife, Noelia López, and the birth of their two children. Tragically, his life was cut short in a car accident on June 1, 2019, at the age of 35.
José Antonio Reyes's legacy extends beyond his impressive trophy haul. He inspired a generation of Spanish footballers with his pace, skill, and vision on the pitch. Reyes's commitment to his craft and dedication to his teams have made him a beloved figure in Spanish football, and his untimely passing has left a void that will be difficult to fill.
The football world mourned the loss of Reyes, with tributes pouring in from his former clubs, teammates, and opponents. His legacy continues to inspire young players, and his name is etched in the history books as one of Spanish football's most prolific wingers.
76 Years Old
A French football legend who revolutionized the sport with his innovative tactics and led Arsenal to numerous titles, earning him a legacy as one of the greatest managers in football history.
48 Years Old
A legendary French striker and iconic Arsenal player, renowned for his exceptional skill, pace, and goal-scoring ability, earning him a spot among the all-time greats.
39 Years Old
A skilled and creative midfielder who played for top clubs like Arsenal and Barcelona, known for his exceptional vision and passing ability.
49 Years Old
A former Arsenal midfielder and French national team captain, known for his dominant and visionary playing style, which earned him numerous accolades and a coaching career.
57 Years Old
A legendary footballer and manager, renowned for his exceptional skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability, leading Arsenal to numerous titles and earning a place in the English football hall of fame.
52 Years Old
A skilled and creative winger who won numerous titles with Arsenal and France, including two Premier League titles and the 1998 World Cup. Known for his pace, skill, and goalscoring ability.
41 Years Old
A skilled and creative attacking midfielder known for his exceptional vision, passing range, and goal-scoring ability from midfield, playing for top clubs like Arsenal and Villarreal.
42 Years Old
Spanish midfielder who scored the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final, earning him legendary status in the football world.
