LTomorrow on Monday, July 7, 2025, it will be marked in the memory of Colombian and Argentine football: Miguel Ángel “El Zurdo” Lópezundisputed legend and emblematic figure on both the pitch and on the benches, He died in Barranquilla at age 83 After a long battle against health problems.
Colombian and South American football fire a charismatic leader, a respected strategist and a figure that transcended generations. Junior de Barranquilla, through a statementexpressed his deep regret and gratitude for López's invaluable contribution to the history of the club, highlighting his leadership, charisma and respect with which he always defended the red and white colors.
“Beyond sports achievements, will be remembered for his leadership, charisma and respect with which he always defended our colors“The Barranquilla club said in his farewell message.
The Junior Club closed its statement by sending a message of strength and condolences to the family, friends and relatives of Miguel Ángel López, wishing his soul rest in peace. Latin American football regrets the departure of a man who, with humility and passion, magnified each institution in which he was present.
His career as a player
Miguel Ángel López He started his professional career in Argentinadefending the colors of teams such as Universitario de Córdoba, Sarmiento de Junín, Students of La Plata, Ferro Carril Oeste, River Plate and Independiente de Avellaneda. However, her deepest footprint outside her country left her in Colombia, where she played for Atlético Nacional.
His passage through the Antioquia club was brief but transcendental. In 1976López was Key piece for National to conquer the Colombian Leaguethus achieving the third star in the history of the club. This title was the only one who obtained as a player in Colombian football.
Successes as technical director
The greatness of “El left” He multiplied in his stage as a coachwhere he reached the top with Junior from Barranquilla and left an indelible mark in several countries.
In Junior de Barranquilla had seven stages as a coach: López directed Junior seven times, becoming one of the most influential technicians in the history of the club.
Was Champion in 2004: His greatest achievement came in the 2004 completion tournament, when he led the team to his fifth star after a final dramatic against Atlético Nacional at the Atanasio Girardot stadium in Medellín. The penalty definition crowned Junior and consolidated López's legacy as strategist.
Other teams and countries
In addition to Junior and Atlético Nacional (which he directed twice), López had a notable international trajectory. In Argentina he played in Argentinos Juniors, Independiente, Boca Juniors, Rosario Central, Ferro Carril Oeste and Arsenal. Also a broad step in Mexico in America, Chivas, Santos Laguna, Toluca, León, Celaya, Puebla and San Luis. In Ecuador he was a player from Barcelona SC. He even arrived in Saudi Arabia football with Ahli. Also in Spain it is remembered for its passage in Badajoz
