Ladislao Kubala was a Hungarian, Czechoslovak, and Spanish professional footballer who is best known for his time at FC Barcelona, where he became a club legend. Known for his exceptional skills as a forward, he is regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of football.
Personal and Family Life
Ladislao Kubala was born on June 10, 1927, in Budapest, Hungary. He later moved to Spain and became a significant figure in football, gaining citizenship there. Kubala played for several clubs, including Ferencváros and Slovan Bratislava, and represented Hungary, Czechoslovakia, and Spain at the international level.
Career Highlights
Kubala was known for his incredible dribbling ability, powerful strikes, and proficiency in taking free kicks. He achieved remarkable success with FC Barcelona, scoring 280 goals in 345 appearances from 1950 to 1961, and he has been celebrated as one of the best players in the club’s history. Although his coaching career did not reach the same heights as his playing days, he still had notable tenures with Barcelona and guided both the Spanish national team and the Olympic team.
Death and Legacy
Ladislao Kubala passed away on May 17, 2002, in Barcelona, Spain, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease and other brain-related conditions. His legacy lives on as he remains a beloved figure at FC Barcelona, celebrated for his contributions to the club and the sport of football. In a fan poll conducted during the club’s 1999 centenary, he was voted the greatest player of all time, surpassing legends like Johan Cruyff and Diego Maradona.
Filmography
| Role | Title | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Actor | ¿Le conoce usted? | 1974 |
| Actor | Ésta es su vida | 1967 |
| Self | Various | 7 Credits |
| Archive Footage | Various | 7 Credits |