Barcelona Sadly Announce The Death Of First Ever Member, He Was 101 Years Old

Barcelona are mourning the death of their first ever club member with Manuel Manos Gonzalbo sadly passing away at the age of 101.

Gonzalbo was number one on Barca's prestigious membership list and it's understood he was loved by his fellow supporters.

He had been affiliated with the club since 1932.

"We are sorry to announce the death of Manuel Manos Gonzalbo, holder of FC Barcelona membership number 1, at the age of 101," the club said in a statement.

"He had been a club member since 5 September 1932. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace."

The legend was just one of 140,000 special members known as 'socios', who are able to vote on significant club issues.

News of his death sparked a mass outpouring of tributes from the global football community.

In response to Barca's tweet, one fan said: "Rest in peace legend."

While another added: "King."

Given his age, Gonzalbo would have been lucky enough to witness a number of world-class players walk through the doors at the Nou Camp during his time as a member.

The likes of Johan Cruyff, Diego Maradona, Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and - of course - Lionel Messi all would have donned Barca's famous purple and blue kit while Gonzalbo was watching on from the stands.

Featured Image Credit: Facebook/The Nation Of Blaugrana/Alamy

Topics: Australia, Football, Barcelona, La Liga

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry