Barcelona Outbid Real Madrid for Goalkeeper Miguel Reina in 1966
In 1966, a bidding war between Spanish football giants Real Madrid and FC Barcelona for Córdoba CF goalkeeper Miguel Reina culminated in Barcelona securing his signature after offering a more favorable financial package. Reina, who would go on to become a pivotal figure for both Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, recounted the details of the transfer in a recent interview with ABC Córdoba.
The Bidding War
Even as playing for Córdoba CF, Reina attracted the attention of both Real Madrid and Barcelona. Real Madrid initially offered 8 million pesetas to be paid over two years. However, Barcelona swiftly countered with an offer to pay the full 8 million pesetas upfront. This decisive move prompted Córdoba’s president, Don José Salinas, to accept Barcelona’s offer, leading to Reina’s transfer to the Catalan club.
“I was at Córdoba, and Madrid offered 8 million pesetas in two years, but Barcelona paid it all at once,” Reina explained. “Then, the president of Córdoba, Don José Salinas, had the eight million place on the table and preferred to take it and send me to Barcelona.”
Reina’s Career at Barcelona
Miguel Reina spent seven seasons with FC Barcelona, from 1966 to 1973, establishing himself as a key player and winning three titles with the club. He later achieved similar success with Atlético Madrid, winning three titles there as well. Reina has consistently emphasized his strong connection to Barcelona, describing the club as “something more than a club” and a significant part of his family’s life.
Upon joining Barcelona, Reina brought his family to Catalonia, investing in local businesses, including a café, a restaurant, and a tailoring shop for his brother. He remains deeply connected to the region, with his family still residing there and his parents buried in Barcelona.
International Career and Legacy
Miguel Reina also represented Spain internationally, earning five caps between 1969 and 1973. According to Wikipedia, he played 312 La Liga matches over 16 seasons, primarily for Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, winning a total of six major titles.
Reina is also the father of José Manuel Reina, a former goalkeeper who played for Liverpool and the Spanish national team.
Key Takeaways
- Barcelona secured Miguel Reina’s transfer from Córdoba CF in 1966 by matching Real Madrid’s offer of 8 million pesetas but paying the full amount upfront.
- Reina enjoyed a successful seven-year spell with Barcelona, winning three titles and becoming a beloved figure at the club.
- The transfer highlights the importance of financial incentives in football negotiations.
- Reina’s family established roots in Catalonia, maintaining a strong connection to the region to this day.
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