Sad news for Spanish football and all football fans: Manuel Cáceres Artesero, better known as Manolo ‘el del Bombo,’ passed away on Thursday, May 1, at the age of 76.
The famous fan of the Spanish national football team, who distinguished himself by cheering on La Roja’s matches with his bass drum, died in the city of Vila-Real after spending several days in the hospital with respiratory problems.
The national team did not hesitate to issue a statement on Thursday after learning of the sad news: “One of our most loyal fans, who has always been with us through good times and bad, has passed away.”
Manolo began his journey as a Spanish national team fan at the 1982 World Cup. From then on, he supported La Roja with his drum at the following ten World Cups and also accompanied the team at eight European Championships.
🖤 Ha fallecido uno de nuestros seguidores más fieles, quien siempre nos acompañó en las buenas y en las malas.
— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) May 1, 2025
🥁 Sabemos que seguirás haciendo retumbar nuestros corazones.
Descansa en paz, Manolo.
Nuestro más sentido pésame a sus familiares y amigos. pic.twitter.com/ApPOeQewlP
His passion for football and the national team was so great that he not only attended major tournaments, but also never missed friendlies and qualifying matches.
The last time he cheered on La Roja was on March 23, during the Nations League match between Spain and the Netherlands at Mestalla. In that match, Luis de la Fuente’s team advanced to the final of the competition.
