What became of... Cota

Who was he? Jesús Diego Cota (Madrid, 1967) was a right back who spent his whole footballing career with one club: Rayo Vallecano.

Why is he remembered? For his loyalty to the Madrid club over his 15 year career, during which time he became the most capped player in the club’s history, with 411 competitive appearances. Eventually earning the captaincy of the Vallecas side, he gained promotion to the Liga BBVA on four occasions (1988/89, 91/92, 94/95 and 98/99).

What became of him? He joined the Association of Rayo Vallecano Veterans when he retired in 2002. He currently owns a restaurant next to Estadio de Vallecas which bears his name, and in which all kinds of historical memorabilia relating to the Madrid outfit, such as banners and photographs, can be found. The restaurant currently acts as the headquarters for the club's Fan Club Federation.

Did you know? Cota lived out one of his dreams during the 2000/01 season when he represented Rayo on the European stage. The South Madrid side qualified for the UEFA Cup through the fair play rule after receiving the fewest bookings in the whole of Europe. Cota partook in the team's two preliminary matches against Andorran side Constel•lació Esportiva, which ended with 16-0 aggregate win for Rayo.