MILAN – If Inter were a film, he would be the Oscar-winning director. Luis Suarez Miramontes, simply Luisito to many, played for the Nerazzurri during the marvellous Grande Inter years, from 1961 to 1970. He joined from Barcelona having already won the Ballon d'Or, his transfer from Spain to Italy based on an original idea by Helenio Herrera and adapted by Angelo Moratti. Barcelona are said to have completed their stadium, the Camp Nou, with the money from his sale.
At Inter he won three league titles, two European Cups and two Intercontinental Cups. His inch-perfect passing from the deep-lying playmaker role remains legendary. He has stayed in Italy ever since: after ending his playing days at Sampdoria, he began a coaching career and has helped Inter out on a number of occasions.
These are his numbers in black and blue: 257 Serie A appearances and 42 goals, 49 European games and 8 goals, 22 Coppa Italia appearances with 4 goals. In total 328 matches and 54 goals.
Today he turns 78. Happy birthday, Luisito!
