BEVERLY HILLS, March 30, (THEWILL) – The death has been announced of passionate Arsenal FanTV favourite pundit, Claude Callegari, at the age of 58.
The Emirates’ superfan amassed a cult following for his impassioned post-match analysis of Arsenal ties and cold-eyed, scathing reviews of performances, particularly directed at former manager ,Arsene Wenger, whom he regularly called to be sacked before the Frenchman resigned eventually.
The Callegari family announced his death on Tuesday via social media without mentioning the cause of his demise.
The family statement read: “We can’t believe we are writing this, with permission from Claude’s father, it is with great sadness and a broken heart that we have to announce that our dear friend and legend Claude sadly passed away yesterday afternoon, March 29.
“RIP dear friend, gone but never forgotten. Gooner for life.”
In a strange twist, Callegari himself tweeted that he would “disappear soon to see my mother then you can all be happy,” only two days ago, which upon reflection now with his passing could have meant that he had some knowledge of what was about to happen.
Reactions to the news of his death have been swift and varied. Footballers acquainted with his person and personality wasted no time in paying tributes to the 58-year-old on social media.
Former Arsenal striker, Kevin Campbell, posted: “Deepest condolences to Claude’s Father and family. I honestly am shocked and can’t believe it! May he R.I.P.”
The Democratic Republic of Congo forward, Yannick Bolasie, who currently plays for Middleborough on loan from Everton, also contributed, saying: RIP Claude, AFTV Certiii, condolences to all his family.”
Another former player, this time a Tottenham and Chelsea striker, Graham Roberts, shared these words: “Had the pleasure of meeting Claude at my flat last year … he was a wonderful guy and real laugh I know he had some personal problems but he had an amazing heart and rivalries aside we had a great evening. Rip mate.”
One of his fellow AFTV pundits, another straightforward critic Moh Haider posted: “Claude was an unbelievably passionate Arsenal man and was brilliantly witty, but unfortunately in a world where people take more pride in being ‘savage’ than being nice, he had his ups and downs.
“I really hope that Claude passed away peacefully and painlessly, and my condolences go out to all of his family, friends, fans and all of the millions of people who smiled because of Claude. Rest in peace Claude.”
Two other popular AFTV pundits of note paid their respects as well. The man popularly known as DT posted: “I honestly don’t know what to say, as a likeminded, passionate, and fiery Arsenal fan we clashed many a time. But there were some really good times, he was the Godfather to all of us. I honestly hope you’re at peace now, Claude, thank you for the many fun times together R.I.P”
While the second, one of the most popular Nigerians supporting the north London club on YouTube, Kelechi Anyikude, shared this: I’m shocked to hear the sad news that my fellow Arsenal fan and analyst Claude has passed away. We shared the same platform @AFTVMedia for years and he always brought his passion. He always showed love.
“My condolences to his family and friends at this sad time. RIP brother.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
