Gijón, Spain – As Real Oviedo and Atlético Madrid prepare to meet this Saturday, the legacy of Luis Aragonés, a figure deeply intertwined with both clubs, is being fondly remembered by his family in Asturias. Aragonés, widely considered an icon of Atlético Madrid and the architect of Spain’s golden era in football between 2008 and 2012, as well holds a special place in the history of Real Oviedo, both as a player and a manager.
LA NUEVA ESPAÑA gathered three of Aragonés’s four nephews from Gijón – Nacho, Inma, and Malaquías (with Gustavo absent) – to share memories of the “Sabio de Hortaleza,” blending recollections of the man with his impact on the football world. Their stories reveal a connection to Asturias that runs deep, stemming from their mother, Generosa, a native of Candás.
The family’s roots in Asturias were established in 1968 when Malaquías Molpeceres and Florencia Aragonés, Luis’s sister, moved to Gijón. Malaquías, a baker, found work at Unipan, bringing with him their four children: Gustavo, Nacho, Inma, and Malaquías. Though born in Madrid, the siblings consider themselves Asturians at heart. “Somos asturianos, claro,” they affirmed.
The Molpeceres family later established Horno Gusmain, a beloved churrería in Gijón’s La Arena neighborhood in the late 1970s, which recently closed its doors. This local business became a central part of their lives, a testament to their enduring connection to the region.
Luis Aragonés’s affection for Real Oviedo is well-known. While his passion undoubtedly lay with Atlético de Madrid, he held a special fondness for the blue and white club. His nephews acknowledge this sentiment, noting that while their uncle’s heart belonged to the Colchoneros, he always supported Oviedo. “He always had a great affection for Real Oviedo given that of the opportunities they gave him,” Malaquías explained.
The family’s sporting allegiances are, unsurprisingly, divided. While Luis favored Atlético, his nephews largely support Sporting Gijón. “¡Del Sporting!” Malaquías declared without hesitation. Though, they emphasized their support for their uncle when he managed Oviedo, hoping for the club’s success. “We wanted Oviedo to win. Well, actually we’re Sporting fans, but we didn’t wish the rival ill. Hopefully, we can witness both teams back in Primera División,” Malaquías added with a smile, also mentioning his support for local club Ceares.
Aragonés’s relationship with Oviedo unfolded in two chapters. The first came in 1960, when the club gave him his debut in Spain’s Primera División. He was 22 years old and arrived on loan from Plus Ultra. He always spoke positively about this early experience. The second, and perhaps more impactful, period arrived in 1999/2000 when he was appointed manager of Real Oviedo by Eugenio Prieto.
By this time, Luis and his wife, Pepita, had family already settled in Asturias. His sister and her children had established roots, and his mother, Generosa, also resided in the region. “He always had a great affection for Oviedo because of the two opportunities they gave him,” Malaquías reiterated. “The uncle was very dedicated to his work, he was a coach 24 hours a day. It was his passion. And we, dedicated to hospitality, didn’t have much free time either. But we did meet up sometimes, especially to go to Candás,” Inma recalled. “The thing is, it was an odyssey to be with him quietly, because a lot of people who weren’t acquaintances would approach him… And then there were those asking for tickets,” she added. “He was at work. You talked to him and you often saw that his head was elsewhere, on football,” Malaquías interjected.
Those who knew Aragonés closely describe a serious demeanor that softened once you were within his inner circle. They highlight his fun-loving side, particularly within the family. “The uncle was imposing,” Inma said, “but we never saw the unpleasant side that sometimes came across due to the pressure of football.” She continued, “The first impression, with that serious look… it could position you off, but then he was a very approachable person.” Nacho added, “He had a position and that came with responsibility, but what was projected wasn’t the same as what you saw up close.”
Malaquías chimed in, “The seriousness comes from the family. Not gloomy, mind you, but serious, with a ‘poker’ face. Our mother was the same.” He added, “I haven’t partied with him, but you’d see him at weddings and celebrations and he was one of those who had the most fun.”
The Real Oviedo–Atlético Madrid match this Saturday serves as a poignant reminder of one of Spanish football’s great figures. Aragonés’s legacy extends beyond his achievements as a player and coach; he was instrumental in Spain’s triumphant run at Euro 2008. His nephews are confident that he would be proud to see this match take place. When asked which team he would support, Malaquías offered a diplomatic response: “Well… he’s always been a fan of Atleti, but it’s true that in La Liga, the team most in need is Oviedo…”, before concluding, “I’d say he’d support whoever plays better.”
The match at the Tartiere stadium is a fitting occasion to celebrate the life and career of Luis Aragonés, a man whose impact on Spanish football continues to be felt today.
