Willie Young Cause of Death: Arsenal and Aberdeen Legend Dies at 73

Former Arsenal and Aberdeen defender Willie Young has died at the age of 73. His death was confirmed by Arsenal Football Club on November 1, 2025. The exact cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed, but tributes have poured in from across the football world.

Young, remembered for his towering presence and tough tackling, was a cult hero of the 1970s and 1980s. His influence stretched beyond his clubs, shaping one of football’s most important rule changes — the “professional foul” law that emerged after his infamous tackle in the 1980 FA Cup Final.

Who Was Willie Young? Career and Legacy Remembered

Born in Edinburgh in 1951, Willie Young began his professional career at Aberdeen in 1969. His strong defensive play and aerial dominance earned him 180 appearances with the Dons before moving to Tottenham Hotspur in 1975. Two years later, he crossed the North London divide to join Arsenal — a move that would define his career.

At Arsenal, Young made 236 appearances and scored 18 goals. He reached three consecutive FA Cup finals between 1978 and 1980, famously winning the 1979 “Five-Minute Final” against Manchester United. Known for his fearless defending and no-nonsense style, Young became a fixture at Highbury and a fan favorite for his grit and commitment.

His name became part of football law history in 1980, when he brought down 17-year-old Paul Allen in the FA Cup final against West Ham United. The foul, though resulting only in a yellow card, led to public outcry and directly influenced the introduction of the “professional foul” red-card rule two years later. Arsenal’s official statement called Young “reliable, dominant in the air, and fearless — a player who left a lasting mark on football.”

Despite his success in England, Young never played for Scotland’s senior team. He was part of the “Copenhagen Five” incident in the 1970s, which resulted in a lifetime ban from international duty. After leaving Arsenal, he joined Nottingham Forest, Norwich City, and Brighton before retiring in 1984 due to injuries.

Tributes and Reactions Following Willie Young’s Death

Following news of his death, tributes poured in from fans, former teammates, and football institutions. Arsenal shared a heartfelt message: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of our former player, Willie Young. A commanding defender whose contributions will never be forgotten.”

Aberdeen also paid respect, describing him as “a pillar of strength in defense and a true professional.” Fans on social media reminisced about his unforgettable style — the towering headers, the fearless tackles, and the loyalty he showed to every club he represented. One Arsenal fan wrote, “My dad always talked about Willie Young — a proper defender from a different era. RIP legend.”

Young’s death leaves behind not only a footballing legacy but a cultural one. His role in changing the laws of the game ensures that his name will live on in football classrooms and history books. His career stands as a reminder of an era defined by toughness, character, and passion for the sport.

Willie Young’s cause of death remains undisclosed as of this writing. However, his impact on British football and his influence on the evolution of the modern game will forever define his legacy.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Willie Young’s cause of death?

The cause of death has not been revealed publicly by his family or former clubs as of now.

Q2: When did Willie Young die?

He passed away on October 31, 2025, at the age of 73.

Q3: Which teams did Willie Young play for?

He played for Aberdeen, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, Norwich City, Brighton, and Darlington.

Q4: Why is Willie Young remembered in football history?

He was involved in the 1980 FA Cup final tackle that led to the creation of the “professional foul” rule, changing football forever.

Q5: Did Willie Young win any major trophies?

Yes. He won the 1979 FA Cup with Arsenal and appeared in three consecutive finals from 1978 to 1980.