Silvino Louro, the esteemed goalkeeper coach who worked alongside José Mourinho for nearly two decades at some of Europe's biggest clubs, has died at the age of 67.
The news was announced Thursday evening by Real Madrid, where Louro spent three years during his distinguished coaching career.
A Trusted Lieutenant
Louro served as Mourinho's goalkeeping coach across multiple clubs, following the Portuguese manager to Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and Manchester United. Together, they amassed an extraordinary collection of silverware, including two Champions League titles, the historic Treble with Inter Milan, and three Premier League crowns across two spells at Chelsea.
Throughout his career, Louro worked with some of the world's finest goalkeepers, including Petr ÄŒech, Júlio César, Iker Casillas, and David de Gea. Under his guidance, VÃtor BaÃa, ÄŒech, and César were each named UEFA's Best Goalkeeper during their respective seasons.
Tributes Pour In
Chelsea, where Louro won the Community Shield in 2005 and 2009, led the tributes. Posting a photograph of Louro holding the trophy, the club wrote on X: "Everyone at Chelsea FC is deeply saddened by the passing of our former goalkeeping coach, Silvino Louro. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this difficult time."
Petr ÄŒech, who flourished under Louro's tutelage at Stamford Bridge, shared a picture of the pair embracing on his Instagram story, accompanied by the caption "R.I.P."
Former Chelsea captain John Terry also paid tribute, posting a photo of Louro with the words: "RIP My friend. What a great man," alongside a blue heart.
David de Gea, who worked with Louro at Manchester United, shared a simple love heart and dove emoji. United's official account added: "We are saddened to learn our former goalkeeping coach Silvino Louro has passed away. Our thoughts go out to Silvino's family and friends at this difficult time."
Legacy
Louro, who reportedly died following a long illness, leaves behind a legacy as one of football's most respected goalkeeper coaches. His ability to develop and refine elite goalkeepers across Europe's top leagues cemented his reputation as a key figure in Mourinho's backroom staff throughout one of the most successful managerial careers in modern football.
