José Emilio Santamaría has passed away at the age of 96. A historic figure for Real Madrid, he made 337 appearances for the club, winning four European Cups, one Intercontinental Cup, six La Liga titles, and one Copa del Rey. He later coached the Spanish Olympic team at the 1968 Mexico City and 1980 Moscow Games, and led Spain at the 1982 World Cup.

A legend of both Spanish and Uruguayan football, Santamaría was born in Uruguay in 1929 and maintained a deep connection to his homeland throughout his life. At Real Madrid, he was widely respected not only for his achievements on the pitch but also for his close relationship with the club and its members.

His health had declined in recent weeks following a domestic accident. Due to his age, he did not undergo surgery and later contracted an illness from which he was unable to recover during his hospitalization in Madrid.

Before joining Real Madrid, Santamaría was a key player for Nacional, where he won five league titles. He also represented Uruguay at the 1954 World Cup, finishing fourth, and at the 1957 Copa América.

His most significant legacy came during his time at Real Madrid between 1957 and 1966. As a central defender, he played a crucial role in one of the club’s most successful eras, winning six league titles, one Copa del Rey, four European Cups, and the 1960 Intercontinental Cup. His contributions established him as a cornerstone of that golden generation.

Santamaría also built a coaching career in Spain, taking charge of the national team between 1980 and 1982 and leading them at the 1982 World Cup, where Spain were eliminated before the semi-finals.

Despite spending much of his life in Spain, his attachment to Uruguay remained strong, particularly to Nacional, the club where his career began. Real Madrid now mourn the loss of one of the great figures in their history.

********************************************************

You can now download the Madridista News App for free on the Apple Store and Google Play.

You can follow us on Facebook here.

You can follow us on X (Twitter) here.                                                                    

You can follow us on Instagram here.

You can subscribe to our YouTube channel here.

You can follow us on Telegram here.

You can follow us on TikTok here.

You can join our WhatsApp channel here.