Steve Rowley – The Arsenal Obituary 2022

Steve Rowley 1980-2017

Born on 2 December 1958 in Romford, Steve spent 37 years at Arsenal as assistant youth development officer, first team assessor and then chief scout. He was responsible for bringing many players to the club.

Linked to the club from 1979, he started out as a part time youth scout in Essex. Steve gained a role as a scout during George Graham’s time owing to his unerring ability to spot talent such as Tony Adams and Ray Parlour. In 1996 he was made Chief Scout by Arsene Wenger, and remained in this senior position until 2017.

As well as Adams and Parlour he was also responsible for locating Cesc Fabregas, Robin van Persie, Gael Clichy, Olivier Giroud and Serge Gnabry.

Arsenal’s website in tribute said: “During four decades with the club, Steve and his network of scouts were responsible for identifying and securing many players instrumental in on-pitch success for the club.”

Mikel Arteta stated: “He was a big part of this club and how he helped Arsène and Arsenal to develop the teams that they built in the past. It’s really sad news and we send our love from the club and, on my behalf, to the family and hopefully, he can rest in peace.”