Former Real Madrid midfielder Manuel Velázquez, who played for the side in the 1960s and 1970s and helped the club with its sixth European Cup, has died aged 72.
The official club website released a statement with the news and paid tribute to the former Spain international, who made 402 appearances for Los Blancos during a stellar career at the club between 1965 and 1977.
As well as winning the European Cup, the ex-midfielder, who lived in Fuengirola, won six league titles and three Spanish cups. He was also capped at international level.
Club president Florentino Perez issued a statement paying tribute to Velazquez. He wrote: “Today is a day of great sadness for el madridismo, as we bid farewell to one of our legendary figures. Firstly, I wish to send my condolences and best wishes to his family and friends. Those of us who were fortunate enough to have seen him play enjoyed his elegance, his intelligence, and his talent on the field of play.”
And he added: “We will forever remember Manolo Velázquez because he lived his whole life according to the values of Real Madrid. This is a great figure who leaves us. His legacy is part of our past and he has a place right at the heart of our history.”
