FORMER Real Madrid and Argentina star Carlos Guerini has passed away aged 74.
The former striker played for several high-profile clubs and won the league three times with Real.
He joined Los Blancos in 1975 and scored 11 goals in 85 games before leaving the club in 1979.
Guerini earned his transfer to Europe after impressing in Argentina for Boca Juniors.
He also scored 23 goals in 48 games for Belgrano, but it was his eight goals in 16 games for Boca which led Malaga to snap him up.
Guerini, who is nicknamed Chupete, also scored the winning goal to send Argentina to the 1974 World Cup, though he was not selected for the final squad.
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The forward returned to Argentina after his spell at Real Madrid ended, before he quit football in 1985.
Real Madrid honoured Guerini following his death with a short statement.
It read: “Real Madrid C. F., its president and Board of Directors is deeply saddened by the passing of Carlos Alfredo Guerini, who played for our club between 1975 and 1979.
“Real Madrid extends its condolences and affection to his relatives, clubs, teammates and loved ones.
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“Carlos Alfredo Guerini has passed away at 74 years of age. May he rest in peace.”
Belgrano also paid tribute in a statement: “Belgramo regrets the death of Carlos Guerini, one of the most notable forwards who wore our shirt.
“We accompany his family and former colleagues in this moment of pain. Goodbye and thanks for your football, Chupete.”
A fan honoured his memory saying: “A huge player. Left an indelible mark. Our institution must offer a tribute to a symbolic player who left a part of our history for our club. ‘Chupete’ will forever be great.”
Another added: “What a great player. A killer with all the skills. May you rest in peace.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
