Tragic Loss: Benin Icon Razak Omotoyossi Dies at 39

TRIBUTES have poured in for former FC Metz star Razak Omotoyossi, who has tragically died aged 39.

The passing of the Beninese football icon and former Blackpool trialist was announced on Tuesday.

4 Former Benin striker Razak Omotoyossi has died aged 39 Credit: ACTION

4 The late striker's cause of death hasn't been revealed Credit: SHUTTERSTOCK

4 Tributes have poured in from around the world for the late Omotoyossi Credit: SPORTSFILE

And the football world paid tribute to Benin's second all-time leading goalscorer after his tragic passing became public knowledge.

One footie fan wrote: " Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Razak Omotoyossi.

"My thoughts are with his family (especially wife Bose Alao Omotoyossi & his children) friends and former teammates at this terribly sad time.

"Top guy, fantastic footballer who’s been through a lot since 2015."

Another said: "May God grant him eternal rest."

And another said: "A gifted goalscorer and passionate servant of the game, his impact on African football will never be forgotten.

"Rest in peace, champion."

The cause of Omotoyossi's death has yet to be revealed.

4 The cause of former Metz star Razak Omotoyossi's tragic passing hasn't been revealed Credit: Alamy

Omotoyossi, who was born in Nigeria but represented neighbouring Benin, played for 15 clubs during his career before calling it a day as a professional footballer in 2021.

Helsingborg, Al-N assr, Metz and Zamalek were the most high-profile teams the late striker paid for.

And a number of his old sides paid tribute to him upon learning of his untimely death.

Swedish side Helsingborgs wrote in a statement on X: "Helsingborgs IF is in mourning.

"We have been informed that our former player, Razak Omotoyossi, has passed away at the age of 39.

"Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Razak."

Syrianski FC wrote: "Syrianska FC has received with deep sadness the extremely tragic news of the passing of Razak Omotoyossi.

"He passed away at the age of 39. Syrianska expresses its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

"Rest in peace, Razak Omotoyossi."

Omotoyossi was prolific for his country, scoring 21 goals in 55 appearances for The Cheetahs across the span of 12 years.

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