Renowned former footballer Luis Suarez, who achieved the remarkable feat of being the only male Spaniard to win the Ballon d’Or, passed away on Sunday at the age of 88.
Known as “The Architect,” Suarez secured the prestigious accolade in 1960 and subsequently served as the coach for the Spanish national team during the 1990 World Cup.
Barcelona expressed their condolences, stating, “Luis Suarez Miramontes, aged 88, passed away on Sunday in Milan. He graced Barcelona’s team from 1954 to 1961 before becoming an iconic figure at Inter Milan.”
In Italy, Suarez earned immense admiration after emerging as one of the league’s most revered midfielders at Inter Milan under the guidance of coach Helenio Herrera in the 1960s, having followed him from Barcelona.
Inter Milan paid tribute to the late football legend, saying, “Bidding farewell to Luisito fills us with profound sadness. His unique and unmatched style of football, which served as an inspiration for generations, combines with the memory of an exceptional player and an extraordinary Inter representative.”
Suarez, hailing from La Coruna, Spain, initiated his career at Deportivo La Coruna before joining Barcelona in 1954. During his tenure, he clinched two La Liga titles with the Catalan giants, alongside various other honors, ultimately culminating in his Ballon d’Or triumph.
Alexia Putellas, a midfielder from Barcelona, is the only other Spanish-born player to have clinched the Ballon d’Or, accomplishing this feat twice in the women’s category. Alfredo Di Stefano, who played for Argentina before representing the Spanish national team, also won the award twice, despite being born in Buenos Aires.