Explore the legendary career of Alfredo Di Stéfano, one of the greatest footballers of all time. Discuss his achievements, follow his life's timeline, and enrich your understanding with in-depth articles. Contribute your thoughts and celebrate his enduring legacy.
Alfredo Di Stéfano, born Alfredo Stéfano Di Stéfano Laulhé, was a professional footballer and coach who played as a forward and is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His illustrious career spanned multiple continents and included numerous achievements with clubs such as River Plate, Millonarios, and Real Madrid, as well as international appearances for Argentina and Spain.
Main Milestones
4 July 1926
Birth
Alfredo Di Stéfano was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, marking the beginning of a life that would be filled with footballing greatness.
1943
Start of Professional Career
At the age of 17, Di Stéfano began his professional football career with River Plate in Argentina, setting the stage for a remarkable journey in the sport.
1946
Loan to Huracán
Di Stéfano was loaned to Club Atlético Huracán for the 1946 season, gaining valuable experience before returning to River Plate in 1947.
1949
Move to Millonarios
Due to a footballers' strike in Argentina, Di Stéfano moved to Millonarios of Bogotá in the Colombian league, where he won several league titles and further established his reputation as a top player.
1953
Signing with Real Madrid
Di Stéfano signed with Real Madrid, becoming an integral part of one of the most successful teams in football history. He scored 216 league goals in 282 games and was instrumental in the club's domination of the European Cup and La Liga during the 1950s.
1956-1960
European Cup Success
Di Stéfano played a crucial role in Real Madrid's five consecutive European Cup victories, scoring goals in each of the five finals and setting a record for the most goals scored in European Cup finals.
1957 and 1959
Ballon d'Or Awards
Di Stéfano was awarded the Ballon d'Or for the European Footballer of the Year in 1957 and 1959, recognizing his exceptional talent and achievements on the field.
1964
Move to Espanyol
Di Stéfano moved to Espanyol, where he played until his retirement at the age of 40, marking the end of an illustrious playing career.
Post-Retirement
Coaching Career
After retiring as a player, Di Stéfano went on to have a successful coaching career, managing several clubs including Boca Juniors, River Plate, and Valencia, and winning several titles.
7 July 2014
Passing
Alfredo Di Stéfano passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
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Brief
Known For
Professional footballer and coach, known as 'Saeta rubia' ('Blond Arrow').
Bio Dates and Places
Born Date: 4 July 1926.
Born Place: Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Death Date: 7 July 2014.
Death Place: Madrid, Spain.
Career
Current occupation: Deceased.
Past occupations: Professional footballer and coach.
Previous Place of Work: River Plate, Huracán, Millonarios, Real Madrid, Espanyol (as a player); Elche, Boca Juniors, Valencia, Sporting CP, Rayo Vallecano, Castellón, River Plate, Real Madrid (as a manager).
Achievements and Recognition
Awards: Ballon d'Or (1957, 1959), Super Ballon d'Or (1989), FIFA Order of Merit (1994), UEFA Jubilee Awards – Golden Player of Spain (2004), Golden Foot (2004), UEFA President's Award (2007), World Soccer Greatest XI of all time (2013), IFFHS Legends, Ballon d'Or Dream Team (Silver) (2020), 11Leyendas Jornal AS (2021), IFFHS All-time Men's B Dream Team (2021), IFFHS South America Men's Team of All Time (2021).
Skills
Exceptional football skills, leadership, goal-scoring ability.
Languages
Languages Spoken: Spanish.
Appearance and Personal Traits
Height: 1.78 m.
Lifestyle
Past Sport Activity and Training Regime: Professional football training.
Residence and Financial Status
Residence: Deceased, previously lived in Madrid, Spain.
Di Stéfano made his debut for Spain against the Netherlands, scoring a hat-trick
in a 5–1 win.
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Alfredo Di Stéfano
Community hub
Explore the legendary career of Alfredo Di Stéfano, one of the greatest footballers of all time. Discuss his achievements, follow his life's timeline, and enrich your understanding with in-depth articles. Contribute your thoughts and celebrate his enduring legacy.