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Claude Callegari's Family Make Statement Following Tragic Death Of Iconic AFTV Star

Claude Callegari's Family Make Statement Following Tragic Death Of Iconic AFTV Star

Callegari helped put AFTV on the map with his passionate views.

Daniel Marland

Daniel Marland

Claude Callegari's family have confirmed the former AFTV star tragically died of natural causes in a new statement.

Callegari was a regular on the Arsenal fan channel until last year and it was announced earlier this week he had died, aged 58.

His family have now taken to social media to address his death while also thanking fans for their 'ongoing support.'

The post reads: "My family and I would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support and kind words during this extremely distressing time.

"I am now able to officially confirm that my father passed away from natural causes relating to his health.

"I hope this will ensure an end to any speculation regarding the matter and our privacy can continue to be respected whilst we make arrangements for his funeral. Thank you."

Callegari appeared on the popular YouTube channel alongside the likes of Robbie Lyle, Taiwo Ogunlabi (Ty), Liam Goodenough (DT) and Aumar Hamilton (Troopz) for a number of years.

His last appearance the channel came in July 2020.

Many fans were drawn to his passionate views on the club and perhaps his most iconic moment came when telling Arsene Wenger "IT'S TIME TO GO!" following a 3-3 draw with West Ham.

He'd then bring the phrase back to much delight when discussing Unai Emery's spell as manager in 2019.

AFTV commented on Claude's passing on Tuesday, stating: "We are absolutely devastated today to learn of the death of Claude Callegari, one of the channel's most popular contributors.

"Claude was a much loved figure during his time on the channel and through his passion for Arsenal was able to connect with fans from around the globe on a meaningful level.

"We had continued to privately support Claude during his time away from the channel during the pandemic and the news of his passing comes as a deep shock to everyone at AFTV and in the wider Arsenal community."

All proceeds of Saturday's Arsenal vs Liverpool watchalong will go to supporting Callegari's family and funeral costs.

Arsenal legend Ian Wright also sent a message of "RIP Claude" and the club's official account said his passion for all things Arsenal was 'undeniable.'

Featured Image Credit: AFTV

Topics:ย Football, Arsenal