Manolo
A Spanish striker who formed a formidable attacking partnership with Paulo Futre at Atlético Madrid, winning two Copa del Rey titles and the Pichichi Trophy in 1991–92.
Manuel Sánchez Delgado (born 17 January 1965), known as Manolo, is a Spanish former professional footballer who played as a striker. Over nine seasons, he amassed La Liga totals of 292 matches and 96 goals, mainly with Atlético Madrid with whom he won two major titles. He also competed at that level with Murcia. Manolo represented Spain at the 1990 World Cup.
- Role
- Striker
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Manolo grew in the ranks of local CP Cacereño, making his senior debut at age 17. After two years with CE Sabadell FC, he moved to Real Murcia CF in the Segunda División, helping them promote to La Liga in the 1985–86 season. He then scored 11 goals in 36 appearances the following campaign as Murcia retained their top-flight status. In summer 1988, Manolo signed with Atlético Madrid, where he knew his most successful years. With countless assists from the Portuguese Paulo Futre, he was crowned top scorer in 1991–92 with 27 goals, adding that season's – and the previous – Copa del Rey trophies. He retired in October 1996 at age 31 after half a season with CP Mérida where he failed to appear in any matches due to a serious tibia injury, just four goals shy of 100 in the Spanish top tier.
In Their Own Story
Manolo made his debut for Spain immediately after having been bought by Atlético Madrid, scoring against the Republic of Ireland on 16 November 1988 for the 1990 FIFA World Cup qualification stages. He went on to total 28 caps and nine goals, representing the nation in the finals in Italy where he only appeared in the first group stage game against Uruguay (0–0).
Reader's Guide
Manolo's career at Atlético Madrid was defined by his partnership with Paulo Futre, whose countless assists helped Manolo win the Pichichi Trophy in 1991–92 with 27 goals. That same season, Atlético won the Copa del Rey, adding to their 1990–91 Copa del Rey triumph. Manolo amassed La Liga totals of 292 matches and 96 goals over nine seasons, mainly with Atlético. After retiring due to a serious tibia injury, Manolo started coaching in 2007, first with Galáctico Pegaso, going on to spend several years in the lower leagues.
Did You Know?
- Manolo was born in Cáceres, Extremadura, and made his senior debut with local club CP Cacereño at age 17.
- He helped Real Murcia CF promote to La Liga in the 1985–86 season, then scored 11 goals in 36 appearances the following campaign.
- Manolo was crowned top scorer in La Liga in 1991–92 with 27 goals, winning the Pichichi Trophy.
- He retired in October 1996 at age 31 after failing to appear in any matches for CP Mérida due to a serious tibia injury, just four goals shy of 100 in La Liga.
- Manolo made his Spain debut on 16 November 1988, scoring against the Republic of Ireland in a 1990 World Cup qualifier.
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