The death of Barcelona legend Josep Maria Fuste was announced by the club on Thursday. The former Barcelona midfielder Fuste was 82 years old.
Over the course of 12 years from 1960 to 1972, Fuste played 406 games for Barcelona and scored 117 goals. He began his career at Barcelona’s academy and had a loan stint with Osasuna in the early 1960s. This also coincided with his military service in Pamplona, before becoming a regular player for the Blaugrana.
Fuste was a highly regarded player during his time and known for his speed, technical skills, and powerful shot. He played an instrumental role in helping Barcelona secure three Copa del Rey titles and a Fairs Cup title.
Fuste became a pre-candidate in the 1989 Barcelona presidential elections. He later served as an advisor to the club’s board from 2010.
“Barca fans everywhere will always remember you. Rest in peace,” said a tweet from Barcelona’s official Twitter page.
In the announcement made by Barcelona about Fuste’s death, there was no mention of his success with the Spain team at the 1964 European Championship. However, their arch-rivals Real Madrid did acknowledge his achievement and paid tribute to him.
“Real Madrid, its President and its board of directors are deeply saddened by the death of Josep Maria Fuste. A legend of Barcelona and Spanish football, who was a member of the Spanish national team that lifted the 1964 European Championship,” a spokesperson said,
“Real Madrid would like to express its condolences and affection to all his relatives, team-mates, clubs and all his loved ones.”
