Who is William Gomis and how did the former Saint-Etienne defender die?

WILLIAM GOMIS is not a well-known footballer – but his death has sent shockwaves throughout France and world football.

The youngster passed away just weeks after his brother.

Former Saint-Etienne defender William Gomis has reportedly been shot dead in France

Who is William Gomis?

The 19-year-old has spent much of his youth career at Saint-Etienne, having joined them five years ago.

Gomis played as a defender, helping the reserve team rise into the Championnat Naitonal 2, the fourth tier of French football.

He left the club in the summer, after his training contract ended, having failed to make it into the first-team.

How did William Gomis die?

Reports in France say the young footballer was gunned down in La Seyne-sur-Mer in Cote d’Azur on Sunday evening.

Gomis was allegedly shot with an AK47 in a street, with a 14-year-old boy also being killed.

Police found 24 cases of the assault rifles at the scene of the incident.

It comes just a few weeks after Gomis’ brother was shot dead.

Gomis spent five years at Saint-Etienne before leaving in the summer

What did Saint-Etienne say?

Ligue 1 outfit Saint-Etienne released a statement saying: “AS Saint-Etienne had the immense sadness to learn of the tragic death of William Gomis, which occurred last night.

“The strong and slender defender contributed, during the 2017-2018 season, to the promotion of the reserve team to the National Championship 2.

“The club’s leaders, coaches, players and employees are deeply affected by William’s sudden death and offer their deepest sympathies to his family.”