Former West Bromwich Albion midfielder Quevin Castro has died at the age of 25 after collapsing during a pre-season friendly in Portugal on Saturday.
Castro was representing Portuguese side Real Sport Clube, also known as Real Massamá, in a match against top-flight outfit Estrela da Amadora when he suddenly fell on the pitch, according to The Athletic.
The tragedy occurred around 10 minutes after kick-off at Estádio das Seixas in Malveira.
The midfielder suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest and received immediate medical attention from personnel at the stadium, including a doctor from Estrela da Amadora.
Medical teams used a defibrillator and attempted to revive Castro before he was taken to hospital by emergency responders.
However, their efforts were unsuccessful and the 25-year-old was pronounced dead.
The friendly was subsequently abandoned.
Real Sport Clube mourns Castro
Real Sport Clube confirmed the midfielder’s death in a statement, describing Castro as much more than a footballer and a valued member of the club’s sporting family.
The club said he had made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him, both on and off the pitch, while extending its condolences to his family and friends.
Estrela da Amadora also paid tribute to Castro and expressed its sorrow over his death following the incident.
Castro’s career in England
Born in Portugal, Castro grew up in Norfolk and developed much of his football career in England.
He joined West Brom in 2021 after previously being part of Chelsea’s youth system.
Castro made three senior appearances for West Brom, featuring in both Championship and League Cup fixtures.
His career also took him to Burton Albion, Notts County, Gateshead, York City, King’s Lynn Town, Chippenham Town and Eastbourne Borough.
He returned to Portugal ahead of the 2026/27 campaign after signing for Real Sport Clube.
Former clubs remember midfielder
Following news of his death, tributes came from several of Castro’s former clubs.
York City said it was “devastated” by the news, remembering Castro as a popular member of its 2023/24 squad.
He made 16 appearances for the club that season and scored against Boreham Wood.
Castro had turned 25 on August 16, just six days before his death.
His sudden passing has prompted an outpouring of grief across the Portuguese and English football communities, with former clubs, teammates and supporters mourning the loss of a player whose career spanned several levels of the game.
