Jose Santamaria death Real Madrid mourns the former defender and Spain coach who died at 96 after a decorated football career

José Emilio Santamaría, a former Real Madrid defender and Spain national team coach, died on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the age of 96, with the Spanish club confirming his passing in an official statement.

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The death announcement sparked widespread tributes, with the club describing him as one of its greatest legends and an icon of world football.

Real Madrid paid tribute to Santamaría, highlighting his role in one of the most successful eras in the club’s history.

He joined Real Madrid in 1957 from Uruguayan side Nacional and became a key figure in a dominant team that shaped European football history.

Santamaría played alongside legendary names such as Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, Francisco Gento, and Raymond Kopa, forming a core that delivered sustained success for the club.

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez said the team helped build the foundation of the club’s global legacy during that era.

During his time at the club, Santamaría won four European Cups in 1958, 1959, 1960, and 1966, alongside six La Liga titles and several other domestic honours.

Born in Uruguay, he represented the national team 25 times before later becoming a naturalised Spaniard.

He also featured for Spain at the 1962 FIFA World Cup and later went on to coach the national side, completing a distinguished football journey as both player and manager.

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His death has drawn tributes across the football world, with many recognising his contribution to the sport’s early European dominance.