It has been 33 years since the tragic passing of Juan Gómez "Juanito," one of Real Madrid’s greatest legends. On April 2, 1992, the former Madrid star lost his life in a car accident while returning to Mérida after attending a UEFA Cup match against Torino at the Santiago Bernabéu. He was just 37 years old and was managing Mérida at the time.

Born on November 10, 1954, in Fuengirola (Málaga), Juanito left an unforgettable mark on Real Madrid during his time at the club from 1977 to 1987. Over 401 official matches, he scored 121 goals and helped the team secure an impressive 11 trophies, including two UEFA Cups, five La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey titles, one League Cup, and a Pichichi Trophy as La Liga’s top scorer.

Juanito's passion, skill, and relentless determination made him a fan favorite. His name lives on at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Madridistas chant "Illa, illa, illa, Juanito Maravilla" in the seventh minute of every match—a tradition that has kept his memory alive for over three decades.

Among his many iconic moments, one of the most unforgettable was his euphoric celebration during Real Madrid’s historic comeback against Borussia Mönchengladbach in the 1985/86 UEFA Cup. That night, Juanito embodied the never-give-up spirit that defines Los Blancos.

Today, on the anniversary of his passing, Real Madrid and its fans honor the legacy of a true legend. Juanito will always be remembered.

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