Biography
Who is Miguel Reina?
Early life and career beginnings
Miguel Reina was born in Córdoba, Spain, on January 21, 1946. He completed his formative training as an athlete with the local organization Córdoba CF.
His official debut in the top tier of Spanish football occurred on October 11, 1964. During this match against Elche CF, his team secured a 2–0 victory. He was only eighteen years old at the time and completed his first season with 26 appearances while his club finished fifth in the standings.
Time with FC Barcelona
In 1966, Miguel joined FC Barcelona. For his first three years there, he primarily served as a backup to goalkeepers Salvador Sadurní and José Manuel Pesudo, appearing in only four league games during that period.
By the 1969–70 season, he became the starting goalkeeper. During his tenure, he helped the club win the Copa del Generalísimo in the 1967–68 and 1970–71 seasons, as well as the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1971. He also earned the Ricardo Zamora Trophy in the 1972–73 campaign after conceding only 21 goals across 34 matches.
Playing for Atlético Madrid
At age 27, Miguel left Barcelona to join Atlético Madrid. He was a consistent starter for his first five seasons with the club. He helped the team win the 1976–76 Copa del Generalísimo and the 1976–77 La Liga championship. Also, he was part of the squad that secured the Intercontinental Cup in 1974.
He reached the 1974 European Cup final against FC Bayern Munich, which ended in a loss after a replay. Although he was a key figure for years, his role diminished between 1978 and 1980 when he became the third-choice goalkeeper. He retired at age 34 with a total of 424 competitive appearances.
International appearances and personal life
Miguel earned five caps for the Spain men's national football team. His international debut occurred on October 15, 1969, during a qualifying match for the 1970 FIFA World Cup against Finland, which Spain won 6–0. He was also named to the 1966 World Cup squad for England, though he did not play.
Outside of sports, he entered local politics in 2011 and was elected to the council of his hometown of Córdoba representing the People's Party. His son, Pepe Reina, also became a professional goalkeeper who played for Barcelona, Liverpool, and the Spanish national team.
Birthday and age
Miguel Reina was born on January 21, 1946, which makes Miguel 80 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. Miguel shares the date with 74 other famous people.
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