- Full nameFrancisco Gento López
- Place of birthGuarnizo (Spain)
- Date of birth21/10/1933
Six European Cups for the ‘Storm of the Cantabrian’
Matches played: 600 official matches
Goals: 182
Spanish International: 44 matches
Trophies, trophies and more trophies. That’s the story of the career of the player many believe to be the best left-winger of all time and the only player in history to win six European Cups. Gento had lightning pace, fantastic dribbling skills and perfect accuracy in his crosses, and he played in one of the truly great Real Madrid teams. Along with Di Stéfano, Kopa, Rial and Puskas he was part of a stunning forward line that led the team to win five consecutive European Cups.
He started his playing for several teams in his native Cantabria. In 1953, he joined his local team Racing de Santander, and his brilliant performances there soon led to his transfer to Real Madrid, in what would become one of the most important signings in the history of the Whites.
He eventually went on to spend 18 seasons and play 600 matches for his beloved Real Madrid and, as well as his wonderfully successful first period at the club, Gento has especially fond memories of his Sixth European Cup in which captained a totally Spanish side (the ‘Yeyé’ Madrid) to European glory in 1966.
He played 44 times for the Spanish national team and played at two World Cups: Chile (1962) and England (1966). Since he hung up his boots, Real Madrid have paid tribute to him on many occasions due to his dedication and devotion to the club. Furthermore, in October 2016 he was named honorary club president of Real Madrid.
Honours
- 6 European Cups
- 12 Ligas
- 1 Intercontinental Cup
- 2 Latin Cups
- 1 World Club Championship
- 2 Spanish Cups