Ex-Arsenal Legend Kevin Campbell Dies After Battling Heart and Kidney Failure

• A Celebrated Career Spanning Arsenal, Everton, and Beyond.

• A Life Remembered: From Rising Star to Beloved Icon.

• The Final Days: Illness, Strength, and a Lasting Legacy

Former Arsenal striker, Kevin Campbell has left the football world in mourning following his departure at the age of 54.

The beloved footballer, who made history in the Premier League, died from natural causes related to severe heart and kidney failure.

According to a coroner’s report, Kevin Campbell’s death was the result of a naturally occurring illness, with no foul play or external complications involved.

He passed away on June 15, 2024, at Manchester Royal Infirmary.

What Caused Kevin Campbell’s Death?

An inquest revealed that Kevin suffered drastic weight loss—over 10 stone—in the four months leading up to his death.

He was first admitted to the hospital in January 2024, appearing “fit and healthy” before his condition suddenly declined.

MRI consultant Dr. Robert Henney explained:

> “Unfortunately, he had two completely separate and unrelated insults to his heart in a short space of time, so he was desperately unlucky.”

Though a delay occurred in identifying infective endocarditis, coroner Zak Golombek concluded:

> “Kevin died from a naturally occurring illness which very sadly… reached its natural end.”

Kevin Campbell’s Career Highlights

Kevin Campbell carved a name for himself in football history:

Arsenal (1988–1995):

59 goals in 224 appearances.

Won the 1990/91 league title, FA Cup, League Cup, and European Cup Winners’ Cup.

Nottingham Forest and Trabzonspor:

Joined Forest in 1995.

Had a brief stint in Turkey before returning to England.

Everton (1999–2005):

Became the club’s first Black captain.

Played a key role in helping the club avoid relegation in 1999.

Later played for West Brom and Cardiff before retiring

Campbell still holds the record for the most Premier League goals scored by a player without a senior England cap.

Tributes to Kevin Campbell

Fans, players, and clubs poured in tributes after hearing the news of Kevin Campbell’s passing.

His brother, Harold Campbell, described him as the family’s “superstar” and added:

> “From a family point of view, he was our superstar from his start in football at 13 years old.”

Football clubs like Arsenal and Everton also honored his memory:

Arsenal FC: “We are devastated to hear of the passing of our former striker Kevin Campbell. A true Gooner legend.”

 

> Everton FC: “Kevin Campbell was more than a player—he was a leader, an icon, and a beloved figure in the Everton family.”

Kevin Campbell’s Legacy in Football

Even after retirement, Kevin remained active in the football scene as a media pundit, loved for his insight and charisma.

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His legacy extends beyond goals and games:

Trailblazer as Everton’s first Black captain.

Role model for young footballers.

Voice of reason in post-match commentary.

Kevin Campbell’s impact on football—and the people who loved the game—will never be forgotten.

FAQs About Kevin Campbell

1. What was Kevin Campbell’s cause of death?

He died from natural causes, specifically severe heart and kidney failure.

2. When did Kevin Campbell die?

He passed away on June 15, 2024.

3. Did Kevin Campbell play for the England national team?

No, he never received a full senior international cap, despite his stellar Premier League career.

4. What clubs did Kevin Campbell play for?

He played for Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, Trabzonspor, Everton, West Brom, and Cardiff.

5. How many goals did Kevin Campbell score in the Premier League?

He scored 83 goals in the Premier League.