The Spanish and international football world was plunged into mourning today following Atlético Madrid's announcement of the death of their legendary player, Enrique Collar, at the age of 91. Collar is considered one of the most prominent figures in the history of the Madrid club, his name synonymous with the team's golden era in the 1950s and 60s, leaving behind an unforgettable footballing legacy in the memories of "Los Rojiblancos" fans.
Club statement and farewell to the icon
The club mourned its legendary captain in a moving official statement, saying: "The red and white family has lost an icon who gave everything to take Atlético Madrid to the pinnacle of national and continental football." The club emphasized that Kolar was not just a player, but the embodiment of the club's values in terms of commitment and fighting spirit, remaining loyal to the team's colors in the most difficult and challenging circumstances.
A career full of records
Kolar joined Atlético Madrid in the early 1950s, excelling as a left winger. His impressive career is evident in his 470 official appearances for the club between 1953 and 1969, during which he scored 105 goals – a remarkable tally for a player in his position at the time. What truly sets Kolar apart is his ten-year tenure as captain during the 1960s, making him the longest-serving captain in the club's history – a testament to his exceptional leadership qualities both on and off the pitch.
Conqueror of the bitter enemy and maker of glories
Enrique Collar's achievements gain added significance when placed in their historical context; he led Atlético Madrid during a period of absolute Real Madrid dominance, not only domestically but also in Europe. Despite this, Collar and his teammates managed to break this dominance at crucial junctures.
Perhaps the most notable of these milestones was the 1960 Copa del Rey final (then known as the General's Cup), when Collar led his team to victory over arch-rivals Real Madrid at their home ground, the Santiago Bernabéu, scoring a decisive goal in that historic match. He didn't stop there, contributing to two more titles in the same competition in 1961 and 1965, further cementing Atlético's dominance in cup competitions.
European glory and the Spanish League
Kolar's successes weren't limited to the domestic level; he was instrumental in putting Atlético Madrid on the European map, leading the team to victory in the 1962 European Cup Winners' Cup, the club's first continental title. The 1965-66 season also saw the team crowned Spanish league champions under his leadership, ending Real Madrid's long dominance of La Liga that decade – an achievement that reflects the resilience of Kolar's generation.
International career and retirement
Internationally, Enrique Collar represented Spain in 16 matches and was part of the squad that participated in the 1962 World Cup finals in Chile, cementing his status as one of the best wingers in the world at that time. Collar concluded his football career by retiring in 1970 after one season with Valencia, bringing to a close a footballing journey that inspired subsequent generations at Atlético Madrid.
