West Ham great Billy Bonds dies at 79

LONDON: Former West Ham United legend Billy Bonds, the club’s longest-serving player and a former manager, has died at the age of 79, the Premier League side confirmed on Sunday.

In a statement, his family said the iconic No4 “passed away peacefully” earlier today.

“Dad loved West Ham United and its wonderful supporters with all his heart and treasured every moment of his time at the club,” the family noted. “He will always be in our hearts and eternally missed. We take comfort knowing that his legacy will live on forever.”

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Bonds, widely regarded as one of English football’s greatest competitors, made nearly 800 appearances during an extraordinary 21-year career at West Ham. He lifted two FA Cups and retired at the age of 41, before returning to manage the club from 1990 to 1994.

It is with deep sadness and the heaviest of hearts that West Ham United announces the passing this morning of legendary player, coach and manager, Billy Bonds MBE.

Rest in peace Billy, our courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader.

— West Ham United (@WestHam) November 30, 2025

West Ham paid tribute, describing him as “our courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader.”

A minute’s applause was held before West Ham’s match against Liverpool at the London Stadium, where current captain Jarrod Bowen held up a shirt bearing Bonds’ iconic No4.

“What he meant to this club, what he achieved for this club, it’s a sad day for everyone,” Bowen said. “He’s probably going to go down as West Ham’s biggest legend and the best club captain they have ever had.”