Francisco Gento López was a Spanish football player. He was born in Guarnizo in Santander.

He débuted in the Primera División with Racing Santander in the 52-53 season. In the following year, he signed for Real Madrid and became a legendary player there, in the number 10 shirt.

The Galerna del Cantábrico, as he was known, played outside left and was noted for his considerable ability when running with the ball. But he was not just gifted with immense speed, but also great skill. He captained a young side, known in Spain as Ye-yé, because of the popularity of The Beatles at that time.

Career Accomplishments

  • Won six European Cups with Real Madrid (56-60, 65-66), competing in eight finals.
  • Intercontinental Cup in 1960.
  • Won the league twelve times with Real Madrid.
  • Twice won the Copa del Rey with Real Madrid.

After he retired from football in 1971, he decided to take up coaching. He took charge of various lower-league teams, such as Castilla, Castellón, Palencia, and Granada. In the end, he accepted a post working as an embassador for Real Madrid throughout Europe.