“One of our most loyal supporters, who stood by us through good times and bad, has passed away. We know you’ll continue to make our hearts beat. Rest in peace, Manolo. Our sincerest condolences to his family and friends,” read a tribute posted on the national team’s official website, accompanied by a photo of Manolo with his signature bass drum.
Manolo had been a fixture in the stands since the 1982 World Cup, held in Spain, and was present for some of La Roja’s most historic moments, including their World Cup triumph in South Africa in 2010.
His final match attendance was Spain’s dramatic 5-4 penalty shoot-out win over the Netherlands on 23 March, following a 3-3 draw in regular time – a victory that secured a Nations League semi-final against France.
