Former Real Madrid player Javier Dorado dies aged 48

Former Real Madrid footballer Javier Dorado sadly passed away at the age of 48 on Thursday, February 27, following a long battle with cancer.

Javier Dorado’s football career

Born in Talavera de la Reina in 1977, Dorado joined Real Madrid’s youth ranks in 1996. He was promoted to the senior squad in 1999 under Vicente del Bosque, making his debut in a Copa del Rey fixture against Valencia. Despite featuring in just eight first-team matches, he was part of the squad that won the Champions League title in 2000. Dorado left Real Madrid for Rayo Vallecano in 2002.

He went on to play for several Spanish clubs, including Mallorca and Atlético Baleares, where he eventually retired in 2012 at the age of 35.

Javier Dorado’s battle with cancer

According to AS, Dorado had been battling cancer for several years and had suffered a relapse around two years ago. It was reported that he had been waiting for a bone marrow transplant while living in Palma, Mallorca, but ultimately succumbed to the illness.

Tributes to Javier Dorado from Real Madrid

Real Madrid released an official statement on Instagram, saying:

“Real Madrid C.F., its president, and Board of Directors are deeply saddened by the passing of Javier Dorado, Real Madrid academy graduate and first-team player for our club in 1999 and 2000.
Real Madrid extends its condolences and love to his family, teammates, and loved ones, as well as all the clubs he has played for.
Over the course of two seasons in Real Madrid colours, Javier Dorado won 1 European Cup, La Octava in Paris (2000).
Javier Dorado has passed away at 48 years of age. May he rest in peace.”

Dorado’s former clubs, including Real Mallorca, also paid tribute to his memory.

RIP, Javier Dorado.

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