Antonio was, and always will be, a special person. The man from Alicante, an adopted Malagueño after almost six decades linked to the city and to the CD Málaga and Málaga CF colours, won the affection and admiration of all thanks to his incomparable kindness. On hearing the sad news of his passing, and with the agreement of the Fernández Benítez family, the Club decided that people should say their farewells to him at La Rosaleda.
As such, Málaga CF arranged a chapel in La Rosaleda’s press room. Many politicians visited, such as Mr Francisco de la Torre, Mayor of Málaga; Mr José María Arrabal, general secretary of sport at the Junta de Andalucía; directors and members of the Club such as José María Muñoz, judicial administrator; Francisco Martín Aguilar and Ben Barek, Malaguista advisers; the first team headed up by José Alberto and with team captains Lombán, Escassi and Ismael; former players such as Salguero, Canillas and Añón; fans and journalists; and, of course, Antonio’s family.
From now on, Malaguistas who walk through the Antonio Benítez corridor or who pass through his door (0), will fondly remember the nearly 60 years he was tied to CD Málaga and Málaga CF. Antonio will remain forever present in the memory of Malaguistas. We will remember him with the characteristic smile that he gave us all.
We’ll miss your Malaguismo and charisma. Farewell, mister!
