Steve Rowley, Arsenal’s chief scout for the majority of Arsene Wenger’s tenure, has died at the age of 63 after a short illness the club have confirmed.
A member of the Gunners’ scouting operations from 1980 to 2017, Rowley helped discover Tony Adams and Ray Parlour during George Graham’s tenure before heading up a global network that lured the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Robin van Persie and Gael Clichy to London in the early noughties.
On Instagram, prior to drinking a Cobra beer in Steve’s honour, Parlour said: “My old scout. I was 11-years-old when I signed for Arsenal, he [Rowley] was always pestering my dad, ‘get him over to Arsenal’. Best decision I ever made getting to Arsenal. He helped me so much in my career. What a legend he was. Absolutely devastating news for Arsenal Football Club. I wouldn’t be where I was if it wasn’t for Steve Rowley.”
Fabregas also took to social media, stating: “What a sad day it is. A great man has left us, a true Arsenal legend. I don’t know where I would be today if you didn’t manage to convince Arsene to sign me at 16 years old. I will never forget your advices and the confidence you gave me everyday at London Colney. You will be greatly missed Steve. RIP.”
Francis Cagigao, who left Arsenal two years ago after years of working closely with Rowley, added: “My friend. A true football man. A true Arsenal man. Devastating news for all of us who knew him and loved the man. RIP Chief.”
Our thoughts are with Steve’s family and friends at this time.
Sad news. Great servant for the club. RIP Steve.
RIP Mate 🙏
May have never really known the man but the name is familiar to all gooners, 63 is far too young. RIP Steve, thank you for being a part of what made Arsenal so special for all those years.
What an absolute legend. All Arsenal fans owe him a debt of gratitude. Thinking of his family today. 63 mad young fr
Very sad news. RIP. Warm wishes to Steve’s family and friends. A real Arsenal legend.
RIP. Arsenal through and through. What a legacy he made at the club.
Very sad news.
A true Gooner, through and through.
My thoughts are with his family and friends.
Real Arsenal man. Never got rid of him, from CM2 until the latest versions of FM. Sincerely hope to learn more about the legend in coming weeks. 63 is so young and my thoughts are with all that are connected with him <3
RIP Steve.
As mentioned above, I first knew his name through Football Manager, but came to learn after the incredible influence he’d had at the club.
But I have to say, Andrew, from the moment I started that video, I had a strong suspicion that Ray wasn’t just going to be having a “Cobra” for Steve.
Then again, even he didn’t acknowledge the wee addition, so I guess we can let you off!
I hope he gets a good send off on Saturday
Will be emotional that’s for sure. Hope we can get a tifo together.
Unsung hero. RIP.
R.I.P. Steve Rowley, and thanks for your contribution to The Arsenal.
Thank you for the part you played in giving me my most enjoyable moments as an Arsenal fan.
RIP.
Rest in peace, friend. You’ll be much missed by us gooners.
He played a significant role in bringing in many talents that we’ve grown fond of over the years. May his soul rest in peace.
Rest in peace, Steve. Proper Arsenal legend.
Rest In Peace, Steve. I first knew you in CM, but you have served the club well in real lift.
RIP Steve x
We idolize Arsene, David Dein, players, etc. and rarely think about the guys behind the scenes who make legends what they are. Steve Rowley was integral to our success over many years, a pillar of the values we so often talk about and a true club servant who will be missed by all.
Thank you for your great service to the club. Deep condolences to his family. RIP Steve