A POPULAR 19-year-old footballer has died and devastated teammates have paid tribute.
Heartlet messages have flooded in for Vini Desouza, 19, who died suddenly.
The teenage footballer was born in Brazil but moved to Walkden, Salford ten years ago.
He joined Warrington Town FC in 2023 and was a “prominent part” of the under 21s team.
The club released a statement saying Vini was a “scorer of the most spectacular goals” and a “much-loved member of the club.”
Despite being only 19 his talent earned him a spot on the first team.
Teammate Sam Gill said: “Vini was a well-loved and much valued player in our team.
“He grew into his character as his time at Warrington went on, and all of the lads had so much respect for him.
“He was an extremely talented footballer with so much ability, had a major impact coming in with us and consequently earning his space for training and playing matches with the first team.
“Vini is someone who will be missed dearly, both on the pitch and more importantly his character in the changing rooms and outside of football.
“We will all miss him, and we send our condolences to his family at this difficult time.”
The team went ahead with their football match at Macclesfield less than 24 hours after finding out about Vini’s death.
They won 4-1 and said it was “in tribute to him.”
The youth football club shared a post on Facebook: “Warrington Town are saddened to report the passing of youth team player Vini Desouza.
“Vini was a well respected and much-loved member of the club, and we send our deepest condolences to his family and friends at this time.”
Vini Desouza, 19, died suddenly and teammates have shared emotional tributes[/caption]
