Tributes have been paid this week after the much loved ex-Norwich City turned non league player Devonte Aransibia dies aged 26.
Devonte came through the academy at Norwich City, signing his first professional contract in 2017.
But then went out on loan to then National League South with Billericay Town during the 2018-19 season, during which time he appeared home and away against Chelmsford City.
Aransibia netted once in 9 appearances for Billericay in the league, that goal being a strike in a 2-0 away win at Eastbourne Borough.
He also made several appearances for Norwich’s U23 side, then played for the likes of Kingstonian, Potters Bar, Royston, Chelmsford and Welling.
He joined Tonbridge from the Wings in November 2022, netting 12 goals, then returned to full-time football with Maidstone.
Aransibia played a part in Maidstone’s FA Cup first round victory against Chesham, but was soon on the move with loan spells at Braintree and back at Tonbridge.
He joined Chesham after being released by the Stones.
He played for Bedford Town in 2024 on dual registration from Chesham, then in November he did the same with Royston Town.
To donate to the fundraising page, click HERE.
Such sad news. Part of our @wellingunited car school where we shared so many good memories. RIP Devonte, gone way too soon. 💔🕊️ pic.twitter.com/yvix7v0rLW
— Samuel Peter Cox (@TheSamCox) February 10, 2025
A Go Fund Me page reads: “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.
“As we navigate this incredibly difficult time, we want to rally around Dev’s family and provide them with the support they need. Your contributions will help allow them to focus on healing and honouring Dev’s legacy.
“No amount is too small, and every donation will go directly to supporting his family during this difficult time.
“Thank you for your love, support, and kindness. Together, we can ensure that Dev’s memory lives on in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him in return.”
“It’s devastating news,” said Tonbridge manager Jay Saunders, per Kent Online.
“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.
“When he first came in, he was a very quiet lad, he kept himself to himself, and once he came out of his shell he was a massive player for us and a massive part of everything we did.”
“I can’t believe it. RIP Devonte,” wrote midfielder Joe Boachie.
“Rest in peace Dev,” Tonbridge team-mate Jordan Greenidge.
Tributes continue to be paid after the ex-Norwich turned non league player Devonte Aransibia dies aged 26…
@Love_non_league: So sad to hear the news about Devonte Aransibia. One of my favourite recruitments was facilitating his move from @wellingunited to @tonbridgeangels. He was a much sought-after player and he hit the ground running for the Angels, my favourite memory was him coming on at half term vs @WorthingFC and helping to turn the game around from 0-1 to 2-1. He was immense that day and in many other games that season. RIP Devonte, you will be sorely missed 🙏🏼
@DavidCo15594164: Devastated to wake up to this. Spent 3 years working with dev @NorwichCityAcad and he was a delight. Good player, brilliant kid. Funny, respectful, polite, one of the very best. Absolutely gutted and I and manyothers send there condolences to all who know him. Rip Dev ♥️
@angeljoy1966: Very sad news, a very talented player. RIP Devonte
@justafan1m: What such awful news. I really liked Devonte when he was with us – most memorably his incredible performance against Chesham Utd which helped us on into the 2nd Rnd of the FA Cup last season. Thoughts with all his family and friends. Rest in peace, Devonte 🖤💛
@djc_86: Such sad new with the loss of Devonte Aransibia. A player who had some much class and potential. Most importantly a great guy. Spoke to him couple of seasons ago, and was such a joyful and brilliant guy. RIP Devonte
@OffTheLineBlog: Devonte Aransibia? Oh my god – such sad news to hear. Thoughts to his friends + family.
@Gammysnr: So, so sad, RIP Devonte, I am in that picture cheering his goal, good memories. Thoughts with family and friends xxx
@stoness_413: Oh my god that’s horrible news, My thoughts go out to his family and friends in this current moment❤️
@NJONES1969: I’m in total shock, a great player and a great man. RIP Devonte 🙏 xxx
@Jamieloveday5: Such sad news . Rest in peace, Devonte. I hope all his family, friends and loved ones are okay during this difficult time of their lives.
@MEvinylrevival: So so sad to hear this news. I enjoyed watching Devonte at several clubs. A lovely footballer and always seemed a slightly shy sensitive lad. Devastating. RIP Devonte.
@benstonesfc1: This is such incredibly sad news. A really nice lad that was a big part of the earlier rounds in our cup run. 26 is just no age at all 🥺 My thoughts are with Dev’s family and friends at this time. RIP 😔🕊️ Once a Stone, always a Stone ❤️
@brokendrone: 💔 This is such sad news, look at the faces of those he made happy. All our prayers are with his family
@JoshuaCampopia3: This is very sad news Sam. Thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends 🕊️ 🪽
@JCrysell1: This is extremely sad news. RIP Devonte.
@mattmein1: This is such sad news, thoughts and prayers 🙏 with his family and friends. RIP Devonte 💔
@BoughtonAndrew7: Truly awful news. Saw him put in some wonderful performances for @tonbridgeangels. Taken way too soon 🕊️
@WingsFan625: RIP Devonte. Feel honoured to have watched him scored a winning penalty against Hungerford a few years ago despite him being at the club for a short time. 26 as well. Massive condolences.
@HLew1z_: Such horrible news, rest in peace. So underrated for @tonbridgeangels thoughts are with friends and family
You must be logged in to post a comment Login