Thierry Henry called him a “wonderful player, superb team-mate and an exceptional human being.” Jose Antonio Reyes was beloved by everyone during his time in North London. Now 20 years on since his arrival, he’s remembered even more following his tragic passing in 2019.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was his team-mate in the Spanish U-21 side and doesn’t recall many better than Jose at the time.
“He was my room-mate and we spent quite a lot of time together. He was a fantastic character and had an incredible football talent,” he said.
“At that age I cannot recall a better player than him, he had everything. He is a part of our history in a big way because he was part of the Invincibles.”
Embed from Getty ImagesArsenal signed the mercurial left-footed winger for a total £17 million from Sevilla in January 2004. Arsenal were competing on all four-fronts and had arguably the best attack in Europe with Dennis Bergkamp, Sylvian Wiltord and Nwankwo Kanu in a supporting cast to Henry. A tough time to join and make a name for yourself.
He quickly removed all doubts from fans’ minds with a breathtaking double against Chelsea in the FA Cup at Highbury. The Spaniard didn’t look back achieving glory with the Premier League title in his debut season followed by the FA Cup in 04/05.
As he came in as an experienced pro, another Spanish star was flourishing at Arsenal, Cesc Fabregas. He references Jose as a key part helping him rise through the ranks.
Embed from Getty Images“I will never forget when you and your family welcomed me at your home in my first Christmas in England when I was alone and was 16 years old,” Cesc said.
“I will never forget our tennis football matches in the gym before and after workouts. Our connection in the field was also special, since it was always easy to find yourself between the lines so you could make the difference.
“I always say that you have been one of the greatest talents in football and I know that I am not wrong.”
Reyes went on to win honours all across La Liga as well, scoring decisive goals in Real Madrid’s La Liga title win and lifting Europa League’s at Atletico Madrid and Sevilla. A glittering career for a player who lit up the stage and made fans enjoy the game wherever he went.
When the unfortunate news came through that he had passed away in 2019, following a car accident, his former boss Arsene Wenger paid tribute in typical classy fashion.
“I’d like to pay tribute to Jose Reyes who passed away today. My respect to him and his family. It’s a sad day for football.”
A classy Spanish technician who produced magic under the iconic Arsene Wenger. Santi Cazorla, Mikel Arteta and Cesc Fabregas all continued the legacy that Jose Antonio Reyes began. Forever remembered in North London.
