March 01

Born in 1892 in Bilbao, Rafael 'Pichichi' Moreno Aranzadi became one of Spain's first football stars. Playing as a forward for Athletic Bilbao, he was renowned for his speed, skill, and prolific scoring record. He helped his club win the Copa del Rey in 1910 and 1913. His fearless playing style and leadership made him a fan favorite. Tragically, his career and life were cut short by typhus at the age of 29. In his honor, the Pichichi Trophy was established to recognize La Liga's top scorer. His legacy endures as a symbol of passion and excellence in Spanish football.

Dixie Dean was born in Birkenhead and began his career with Tranmere Rovers before joining Everton in 1925. In the 1927–28 season, he scored 60 league goals—a record that still stands in the English top flight. Dean won the First Division title with Everton in 1927 and the FA Cup in 1933, cementing his status as a club icon. He earned 16 caps for England, scoring 18 goals and showcasing his powerful aerial ability. After World War II, he played briefly for Notts County and Third Lanark before retiring. Dean died in 1980, remembered as one of football’s greatest center‐forwards.

César Rodríguez Álvarez (1920–1995), commonly known as “César,” became one of FC Barcelona’s greatest strikers, scoring over 180 goals during his tenure. He won multiple La Liga titles and Copa del Rey trophies, cementing his place in the club’s history. After retiring as a player, Rodríguez transitioned to management and coached several Spanish clubs, imparting his tactical knowledge. His elegant style of play and clinical finishing made him a fan favorite at Camp Nou. Rodríguez’s legacy endures through his records and influence on future generations of footballers.

Peter Osgood (1947–2006) made his debut for Chelsea at age 17 and quickly became a fan favorite with his powerful shots and aerial ability. He scored over 100 goals for the club and was instrumental in FA Cup victories in 1970 and 1971. Osgood also had successful spells with Southampton and Norwich City before retiring from professional football. Off the pitch, he maintained a strong presence in the Chelsea community, attending club events and supporting youth development. Remembered as one of Chelsea’s greatest players, Osgood’s legacy lives on through the club’s history and its supporters.

Born Saturnino Orestes Armas Miñoso in 1922 in Cuba, Minnie Miñoso made his MLB debut in 1949 with the Cleveland Indians. Nicknamed “The Cuban Comet,” he became a five-time All-Star outfielder for the Chicago White Sox and a fan favorite for his speed, batting prowess, and vibrant personality. After his playing career, he served as a coach and mentor in the minor leagues, influencing generations of Latin American players. Miñoso famously appeared in games across five different decades, cementing his legendary status. He died in 2015 in Chicago at age 92.

Just Fontaine was a legendary striker whose 13 goals in the 1958 World Cup remain the tournament's highest single-tournament tally. He starred for club sides Nice and Reims, winning multiple Ligue 1 titles. Known for his speed, positioning, and clinical finishing, he earned 21 caps for France, scoring 30 goals. Fontaine transitioned to coaching and football administration after retiring due to injury. His incredible goal-scoring record and influence on the game make him a lasting icon in football history.