Luis Marquez dies aged 51 as Liverpool keeper Adrian pays tribute to LaLiga icon

17 April 2023 , 12:18

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Real Betis icon Luis Marquez has died at the age of 51 (Image: INTERENET PICTURE)

Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian has led the tributes to Luis Marquez after the LaLiga legend died aged just 51 on Monday morning.

Marquez came through the ranks at Real Betis, spending 11 years with Los Verdiblancos, before spells at Real Valladolid, Pontevedra and Real Jean. He earned the nickname 'Schuster' due to his physical and technical resemblance to German legend Bernd.

He helped Betis to get promoted back to the Spanish top-flight in 1994 and is fondly remembered for a stunning volley he scored against Atletico Madrid the following season. That strike is judged by many to have been the best ever scored at the Estadio Benito Villamerin.

The former midfielder made more than 200 appearances in total for Betis, as well as scoring 15 goals. Marquez featured regularly in LaLiga and the UEFA Cup, playing a key role for Betis before his exit in 2000.

He had been battling cancer in the final years of his life, with tributes now pouring in. Adrian, who started his career at Betis, was one of those to publicly mourn the loss of Marquez.

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The Liverpool star tweeted: "All my love to the family and loved ones of Luis Marquez. A legend for the Betis family is leaving. Rest in peace." Adrian's tribute came after the sad news was announced by Betis.

Liverpool keeper Adrian paid tribute to Marquez

The LaLiga side tweeted: "Very sad news for the whole Green and White family. Former player Luis Marquez has passed away this morning. We send all our love and support to his family. Rest in peace."

Reigning champions Real Madrid added their own tribute to the former goalkeeper. Los Blancos expressed their condolences to Marquez's family, as well as the clubs that he played for.

They wrote: "Real Madrid, its president and its Board of Directors deeply lament the passing of Luis Marquez, who played for @RealBetis between 1989 and 2000, and wishes to express its condolences and affection to his family, his loved ones and the clubs that he played for. RIP."

Supporters were also upset at the news that Marquez had passed away. Tributes poured in from those who had watched the midfielder during his career.

One said: "You have left my great friend fighting until the end, your family and your friends are very proud of the great person you have been. Fly high friend, wherever you are, you will always be present in our hearts. RIP My great friend Luis Marquez."

Another added: "Thank you for being an example of struggle in this life. For having such a big heart. For being that friend we all wanted to have. Rest in peace, my dear Luis Marquez. Help us from up there as only you knew how to do it. There is an officer in heaven."

Jacob Leeks