Arteta’s condolence letter brings comfort to family of devoted Arsenal fan from Mayo
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta Picture date: Saturday March 7, 2026.
A Mayo family were “completely overwhelmed” at receiving a letter of condolence from Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta following the passing of their father, who was a huge supporter of the new Premier League champions, earlier this year.
Declan Nevin, Mullaun, Newport passed away in March of this year. He was a popular figure in the west Mayo area and particularly in Newport where he ran Nevin’s Bar on Main Street.
The Nevin family shared a letter they received from Mikel Arteta and Arsenal Football Club following Declan’s passing earlier this year. His family described Declan as “the biggest Arsenal fan you could ever meet,” who had an “unshakeable” love for the club.
“It is with great sadness that we learned recently of the death of Declan and on behalf of us all at Arsenal Football Club, I do extend to you our very sincere condolences.”
“Although I did not have the privilege of knowing Declan personally, I am aware that he enthusiastically followed the fortunes of his team and for this we are extremely grateful,” read the letter, signed by the Arsenal boss.
His family said they were “overwhelmed” by the letter.
“When we received this beautiful letter from Mikel Arteta and everyone at Arsenal Football Club, we were completely overwhelmed. To know that the club he gave his heart to took the time to think of him and reach out to our family, it means everything.”
“It's been 22 years since Arsenal last won the Premier league title...Dad waited and believed every single season. A happy man in Heaven, he surely is.”
