Former West Brom midfielder Quevin Castro, 25, dies after collapsing during friendly in Portugal

Quevin Castro, a former West Bromwich Albion midfielder, died on Saturday after collapsing during a friendly match in Portugal. The 25-year-old fell ill while playing for third-tier Portuguese side Real Sport Clube against Estrela da Amadora and was taken to hospital, where he later passed away.

West Brom confirmed the news in a statement, saying the club was “devastated” by the loss. “Albion will pay tribute to Quevin on Sunday, with a period of applause in the 25th minute of the fixture against Burnley,” the club said. “James Morrison’s men will also wear black armbands. The thoughts of everyone at Albion are with Quevin’s loved ones at this desperately sad time.”

Castro made his first-team debut for the Baggies against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup in 2021 and added one league appearance the following February. During his two years at The Hawthorns he also had loan spells at Burton, Notts County, and Gateshead before joining York City in the summer of 2023, where he made 15 appearances in total before returning to Portugal.

Estrela da Amadora also paid tribute in a statement. “Estrela da Amadora hereby express their deepest sorrow for the passing of Quevin Castro,” the club wrote. “At this moment of profound sadness, Estrela da Amadora extend their most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Quevin Castro, as well as to the entire Real Massama structure. Our thoughts are with all those close to him. Rest in peace, Quevin.”