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Luis De la FuenteMexican footballer, midfielder
Date of Birth: 17.01.1914
Country:  Mexico |
Content:
Biography of Luis de la Fuente
Luis de la Fuente was a Mexican football player and midfielder, widely regarded as the greatest player in the history of Mexican football after forward Hugo Sanchez. He was ranked second among the best footballers of the 20th century in Central and North America, according to a survey by the Mexican Federation of Football and International Information Services.
Early Life and Career
Luis de la Fuente was born in the port city of Veracruz, Mexico, to a Mexican mother and a Spanish father. He began his training at the local youth club "Espana." However, he spent most of his youth in his father's homeland, Santander and Extremadura, where he attended school. After returning to Mexico and settling in the capital city of Mexico City, Luis, a student at Alfonso XIII College, was invited for a trial training session with the local team "Aurrera." Unfortunately, the school director denied him permission to go, so Luis simply left the college and started playing for "Aurrera."
Professional Career
Luis de la Fuente quickly showcased his skills and was soon transferred to another club, "Real Espana." However, his stay there was short-lived. After impressing in the World Cup qualifying matches in 1934, he was bought by "Racing" from Santander. During his time at this club, the midfielder regularly flew back to Mexico, missing his homeland. In the midst of his career with "Racing," the Spanish Civil War broke out. Luis returned to Mexico and attempted to rejoin his old club, "Real Espana," but was denied. He then joined another capital city club, "America," where he performed so well that the management of "Real Espana" even wanted him back in the team.
Later Career and Legacy
After playing in Paraguay and Argentina, with the club "Marte" (with whom he won the 1942/1943 championship), Fuente returned to "Veracruz," signing a long-term contract that lasted until the end of his career. He played for "Veracruz" until his farewell match on March 13, 1954, at the "Estadio Azul" stadium of the "Cruz Azul" club in Mexico City.
Luis de la Fuente and Hoyos passed away due to a heart attack on May 28, 1972. The stadium of "Veracruz" was named after him - Estadio Luis "Pirata" Fuente, in honor of his contributions to Mexican football.
