Raymond Kopa

Raymond Kopa was a French professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder. He was born on October 13, 1931, in Noeux-les-Mines, France, and died on March 3, 2017, in Angers, France.

Kopa began his career with SCO Angers in 1949 and quickly established himself as one of the most promising young players in France. He earned his first cap for the French national team in 1952 and went on to make 45 appearances, scoring 10 goals.

In 1956, Kopa joined Real Madrid, where he played alongside some of the greatest players of all time, including Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, and Francisco Gento. He helped Real Madrid win three consecutive European Cups (1956–58) and two La Liga titles (1957–58).

Kopa returned to France in 1959 and joined Stade de Reims. He helped Reims win the Coupe de France in 1960 and the Division 1 title in 1962. He retired from playing in 1967.

Kopa was known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and goalscoring prowess. He was a key member of the French team that reached the semi-finals of the 1958 FIFA World Cup and was named European Footballer of the Year in 1958.

In 2004, Kopa was named one of the FIFA 100, a list of the 100 greatest living footballers. He was also inducted into the French Football Hall of Fame.

Kopa was a true legend of the game and is considered one of the greatest French footballers of all time. He will be remembered for his skill, flair, and passion for the sport.