Manolín Bueno, known for being a vital yet often overshadowed figure during his time at Real Madrid, died on Saturday in Cádiz at the age of 86. Bueno, who played as a winger, had a remarkable career spanning 12 seasons with the club, where he achieved significant honors including two European Cups in 1960 and 1966, an Intercontinental Cup in 1961, eight La Liga titles, and two Copa del Rey trophies. His tenure is particularly noted for his role as a backup player to the legendary Paco Gento, often referred to as 'La Galerna del Cantábrico', which limited his first-team appearances to just 76 league matches.

Born in Sevilla on February 5, 1940, Bueno found his second home in Cádiz, where he began his football journey. Despite his challenges in breaking into the first team at Real Madrid, his contributions to the club’s successes during a golden era of European football were invaluable. After leaving Madrid, he had a brief spell at Sevilla during the 1972-73 season before retiring at the age of 32, ending a career that was impactful in the context of Spanish football history.

Bueno's passing marks the end of an era for many fans who remember his tenure at one of the most iconic clubs in world football. His legacy, primarily as a key backup to a sporting icon like Gento, reminds sports enthusiasts of the crucial roles often played by those not always in the spotlight, highlighting the camaraderie and spirit of teamwork that football embodies.