Branko Kubala


Branislav Kubala Daučík was a Spanish professional footballer who played as a striker.

Early and personal life

Kubala was born in Šahy, Czechoslovakia, the eldest of three sons of László Kubala and Violeta Daucikova. Violeta was the sister of Ferdinand Daučík and the aunt of Yanko Daucik. The family moved to Barcelona, Spain soon after his birth.

Career

Kubala spent time with the Real Betis youth team in 1961, before joining the AC Milan academy in Italy, where he spent two seasons. Upon his return to Barcelona he played with Espanyol, making his professional debut on 3 April 1965 at the age of 16 years 83 days, a league record for the youngest player. After one further appearances, he then played for Sabadell, before moving to North America with his family, where he played for the Toronto Falcons, the St. Louis Stars, and the Dallas Tornado. After returning to Spain to undertake military service, he played for Cartagena, Sant Andreu and Atlético Malagueño, before retiring at the age of 24.

Later life and death

He died on 25 February 2018.