Emilio Butragueno

Emilio is a former Spanish footballer who played for the clubs Real Madrid and Celaya as a centre- forward. Born on 22nd July 1963, Emilio also known as ‘The Vulture’, and was one of the best Spanish footballers of his time.

Background

Butragueno hailed from a family which encouraged football as even his father was a player at Real Madrid. Due to his exceptional skills and skillful dribbling, Atletico de Madrid wanted to sign him but he had always supported and wanted to join Real Madrid, so he did.

Debut

Emilio made his debut on 5 February 1984 for Real Madrid where they defeated Cadiz. Emilio came in the second half and scored two goals and these goals turned the match in favor of Real Madrid.

Rise to glory

Due to his intelligence on the field and goal scoring dexterity, he had already started to become famous and seeing this rising popularity while playing for Real Madrid Castilla, he was called up by Aflredo Di Stefano, as a result of which he made his debut on 5th February 1984.

In subsequent years his performance was at its peak when he contributed significantly in winning UEFA Cup in 1985 and 1986. He also bagged the ‘Bravo Trophy’ for the best U-23 player.

Club career

Emilio has played in 12 Laligas( 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993 and 1994) five UEFA Cups (1984, 1985, 1991, 1992, 1994), European Champions Club’s Cup in 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989 and 1990, SuperCopa Cup in 1990 and in Copa del Rey in 1994.

Retirement

Emilio retired on July 1, 1998 from Atletico Celaya in Mexico. After retirement he completed M.A. in Sports Management in U.S.A after which he completed MBA and returned to the Santiago Bernabeu. He then became the Director of Football when Florentino Perez was President of Real Madrid. He currently serves as the Director Of Institutional Relations.