A Spanish football legend who coached the national team to Euro 2008 victory and managed several top clubs, known for his innovative tactics and success on the pitch.
Luis Aragons, also known as "Zapatones" (big boots), is renowned for his exceptional football skills, particularly his expertise in free kicks, and his successful coaching career that spanned over three decades. As a player and coach, he is most associated with Atlético Madrid, where he won numerous titles and accolades, cementing his status as a Spanish football legend.
Born on July 28, 1938, in Madrid, Spain, Aragons began his playing career with Getafe Deportivo in 1957. He later signed with Real Madrid but was mostly loaned out to other clubs, including Recreativo de Huelva and Hércules, and played for AD Plus Ultra, the Real Madrid reserve team.
In 1960, Aragons joined Real Oviedo and made his debut in the Primera División. Between 1961 and 1964, he played for Real Betis, making 86 league appearances and scoring 33 goals.
In 1964, Aragons was signed by Atlético Madrid, where he acquired the nickname "Zapatones" due to his exceptional free kick skills. During his playing career with Atlético, he won the Copa del Rey in his first season, followed by two La Liga titles (1965-66 and 1969-70). He shared the Pichichi trophy for the highest scorer in the league with his fellow Atlético forward, José Eulogio Gárate, in the 1969-70 season.
Aragons transitioned into coaching after retiring as a player and went on to manage several La Liga clubs, including Atlético Madrid, where he won four national championships and reached the 1974 European Cup Final. He also coached the Spain national team, leading them to their second European Championship title in 2008.
Luis Aragons' influence on Spanish football is immense, both as a player and coach. He is revered for his technical skills, tactical acumen, and ability to inspire his teams to success. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of Spanish footballers and coaches.
Aragons passed away on February 1, 2014, but his contributions to the sport will always be remembered and celebrated.
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