JOSEP SAMITIER

Considered the most emblematic player in the history of FC Barcelona and the best European forward of his times, Josep Samitier (Barcelona 1902-Barcelona 1972) led the terrific Barça in the golden age of the twenties.

His acrobatics and amazing jumps captivated the Barcelona fans who very quickly made him into their idol calling him “lobster man” and “magician”. The first “boom” of football crowds, came about thanks to him. A football team was created around him due to his exceptional technique and great football skills. Eventually the football field became too small to cater for the crowds and “Las Corts” was built in 1922.

With Samitier Barça acheived twelve Catalan Championships, five Spanish Championships and the first Spanish league that began in 1928-29. Despite starting out as a midfielder he is remembered as an excellent centre forward. The figures are significant: he scored 326 goals wearing the blue and claret shirt which made him the second greatest scorer in the history of the club after Paulino Alcántara.

Samitier also was a trainer between 1944 and 1947, winning the 44-45 Spanish League and the Eva Duarte Cup in 1945. As Club Manager (position which he cccupied until his death) he was responsible for the signing up of Kubala in 1950. On the 16th September 1993, his name was given to one of the streets near “Camp Nou”.