Death of Real Madrid Legend José Emilio Santamaría at 96 Years Old
The football world is mourning the passing of José Emilio Santamaría, a former star of Real Madrid and the former coach of the Spanish national team during the 1982 FIFA World Cup. He passed away at the age of 96, confirmed the Madrid club this Wednesday.
A Pillar of Madrid’s Golden Age
Real Madrid paid tribute to someone they regard as “one of the greatest legends of our club and world football.” An iconic central defender, Santamaría joined the club in 1957 from the Club Nacional de Football, quickly establishing himself as a key figure during one of the most glorious periods in the club’s history.
A Legendary Generation
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez honored the player’s memory, recalling that alongside Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, Francisco Gento, and Raymond Kopa, Santamaría played a crucial role in building the club’s legend.
An Exceptional Career Record
Born in Uruguay, Santamaría won four European Cups with Real Madrid (1958, 1959, 1960, and 1966), as well as six Spanish league titles, among other trophies.
An International and Coaching Career
On the international stage, he first represented Uruguay 25 times before obtaining Spanish nationality and competing for Spain in the 1962 FIFA World Cup. He later continued his career as the head coach of the Spanish national team.
The passing of José Emilio Santamaría marks the end of an era for European football and the history of Real Madrid.
