LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Real Madrid legend and honorary president Amancio Amaro, who took in 471 appearances for the club in his career days, has passed away at the age of 83.
The legendary right-sided attacker joined the Blancos from Deportivo La Coruna in 1962 and would go on to spend 14 memorable years at Santiago Bernabeu.
He scored 155 goals for the Liga giants, helping them to nine domestic league titles and European Cup victory in 1966.
Amancio, who won 42 international caps, also formed part of Spain’s triumphant squad at the 1964 European Championships.
After his retirement in 1976, an iconic figure in Madrid spent time coaching Real’s youth teams before taking the reins of the club’s Castilla side and guiding them to the Segunda title in 1984.
A statement on the Blancos’ official website reads: “Real Madrid C. F., the club’s president and its Board of Directors are deeply saddened by the passing of Amancio Amaro, Real Madrid’s honorary president and one of the greatest legends of our club and of world football.
“Real Madrid would like to extend its condolences and sympathy to his wife Consuelo, his children Oscar, Belen, Amancio, Patricia, Marcos and Claudia, his brother Juan Carlos, his grandchildren and all his relatives, colleagues and loved ones.”