Alfredo Di Stéfano, a renowned footballer and pioneer of the modern game, died on the 7th of July 2014. He was 88 years old. Born on 4th July 1926, Di Stéfano was recognized as one of the most influential players of the 20th century. He began his career in 1945 with Club Atlético River Plate, and made more than 700 appearances for them, as well as Real Madrid, Espanyol and Valencia. He won eight Spanish league titles and four European Cups at Madrid, and was the first player to score in five successive European Cup finals. His most notable achievements during this period included the 1958-59 season when he scored 32 goals and led Madrid to a historic five-trophy haul, and the second straight La Liga title in 1965. Overall, his goals helped Madrid win a total of 30 trophies in eleven seasons. A five-time Ballon d'Or nominee, Di Stéfano was one of the finest players of his generation. After finishing his playing career, he went on to manage several clubs, most notably Boca Juniors and Valencia. He was also awarded with the Spanish Grand Cross Civil Order of Alfonso X and the Laureus World Sports Award for a Lifetime Achievement in 2004. In 2008, a bronze bust of Di Stéfano was unveiled in front of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Di Stéfano is survived by his wife Sara and his four children. He will be remembered as an inspiring figure and one of the greatest players of all time.