Milinko Pantić

Milinko Pantić arrived in 1995 from Panionios in Greece, a 28-year-old Serbian midfielder who was hardly a household name. Within a season he was one of the most loved players in Atlético's history.

The double

Pantić had a wonderful right foot. His corners, free kicks and crosses created goal after goal for Kiko and Lubo Penev, and he scored plenty himself. In the 1996 Copa del Rey final against Barcelona in Zaragoza, with the game goalless in extra time, he headed the winner. Weeks later Atlético were league champions too, completing the only double in the club's history.

Legacy

He stayed until 1998, playing more than 100 league games, and starred in the Champions League run of 1996–97. For the supporters of that era, Pantić is proof that great players do not need great reputations, only great feet.