There is one story dominating the news here in Madrid this morning – the death of Alfredo di Stefano.
The 88-year-old died yesterday afternoon in Gregorio Maranon hospital in the Spanish capital where he was being cared for by doctors after suffering a heart attack on Saturday lunchtime, the day after his birthday.
Every leading paper in Spain leads with the story and pays tribute to the man who won five European Cups with Los Blancos in the 1950’s as well as eight La Liga titles. Marca uses its front cover as a tribute to the great man, with the white background symbolising what a pure football talent he was, as well as how much he meant to the club.
Many of the biggest names in the football world have paid tribute to di Stefano, including current Real players, as well as the likes of Sir Bobby Charlton and Sir Alex Ferguson. All spoke in glowing terms about the player he was and the impact he had on the game worldwide.
Fans will be able to see di Stefano for the final time as his body will lie in repose at the Santiago Bernabeu this morning. His funeral will take place tomorrow in a private ceremony.
Elsewhere, Sami Khedira and Marcelo go up against each other tonight in the first of the World Cup semi-finals and Germany take on hosts Brazil – who are without the injured Neymar and suspended captain Thiago Silva.
May Allah grant u his mercy and sorrow…Amin