Manchester, U.K. — Former Premier League footballer Kevin Campbell, celebrated for his stints at Arsenal and Everton, tragically passed away last June at the age of 54 after a rapid decline in health led to multiple organ failure. An inquest into Campbell’s death revealed a series of health complications, including dramatic weight loss and an undetected heart infection which significantly contributed to his premature death.
Campbell, known for his robust physique and goal-scoring prowess, experienced an unforeseen health deterioration beginning around January 2024. Initially admitted to Manchester Royal Infirmary for heart and kidney failure, he was discharged two months later, showing signs of recovery. However, a severe loss of weight, from 19.5 stones to just 9.3 stones, and the development of gangrene in his toes required another hospital admission in May.
Despite being put on palliative care shortly after his second admission and remaining alert, Campbell’s condition was too delicate for surgical interventions that might have combated his critical health issues. He succumbed to his ailments on June 15, later found to have been battling infective endocarditis, a rare and grave heart infection.
The inquest revealed that the diagnosis of endocarditis was missed during Campbell’s initial hospital stay. Consultant Dr. Robert Henney testified that even if the condition had been identified earlier, the star’s weakened state meant treatment options would have been severely limited.
The coroner, Zak Golombek, acknowledged a missed opportunity in diagnosing Campbell’s heart infection earlier which, although did not directly lead to his death, highlighted a significant oversight. This led the hospital to initially declare a level 5 patient safety incident, although this was later downgraded after further evaluation.
Manchester Royal Infirmary has faced scrutiny over their handling of the case but concluded that while Campbell’s death was “possibly avoidable,” it was “not very likely” to have been prevented due to the advanced state of his condition when re-admitted.
Campbell’s illustrious football career spanned over two decades where he made his mark primarily with Arsenal and Everton. At Arsenal, he was part of the squad that won the old First Division, the FA Cup, the League Cup, and the European Cup Winners’ Cup between 1988 and 1995. After joining Everton in 1999, he became a beloved figure over his six-year stint, making 137 appearances and becoming a key player.
Football communities, particularly those of Arsenal and Everton, expressed profound grief over the loss of Campbell, whom they described as not only a top-tier athlete but a remarkable person off the field. Former teammate Wayne Rooney and Arsenal star Tony Adams were among the many who paid heartfelt tributes to Campbell, emphasizing his character and the significant impact he had on peers during his career.
His legacy is also marked by his record for the most Premier League goals without a full England cap, although he did represent England in U21 and B squads. Off the pitch, Campbell was known for his vibrant personality and dedication to community causes, reflecting a life marked significantly by his contributions both on and off the field.
As the sports world mourns, his family, including his son Tyrese, who followed in his father’s footsteps into professional football, expressed satisfaction with the coroner’s ruling, attributing his death to natural causes stemming from his health complications. They remembered him as a deeply loved family member whose impact transcended the football pitch.