In Spanish football, the word “Pichichi” is instantly recognizable—it represents the top goalscorer in LaLiga each season.

Yet behind this famous trophy lies the story of a real player, a local hero whose name became immortal: Rafael Moreno Aranzadi, better known as Pichichi.

Born in Bilbao on May 23, 1892, Pichichi was the nephew of celebrated Basque writer Miguel de Unamuno.

Despite his small stature—something that inspired his brother Raimundo to give him the affectionate nickname “Pichichi”—he grew into one of the most charismatic figures of early Spanish football.

Playing as an inside left for Athletic Club, he left a permanent mark on the game.

One of his most historic moments came on August 21, 1913, when San Mamés stadium was inaugurated.

In that very match, against Racing de Irún, it was Pichichi who scored the first-ever goal at the cathedral of Bilbao.

But his story is far richer than a single goal.

Who was Pichichi and what was his story?

• His first official game was against Real Madrid, ending in a 3–0 victory—two goals scored by Pichichi himself in the opening 11 minutes.
• In the 1915 Copa del Rey final, he netted a stunning hat-trick.
• He was instantly recognizable on the pitch, often playing with a white handkerchief tied around his head.
• Over his career, he scored 83 goals in 89 matches across the regional championship and Copa del Rey.
• After retiring at just 29, he became a referee, showing his enduring passion for the sport.
• Tragically, he died young—believed to be from eating bad oysters—before even turning 30.

Though his career and life were short, his impact was lasting.

In 1953, Spanish sports newspaper Marca decided to honor him by naming the award for LaLiga’s top goalscorer the Pichichi Trophy.

Since then, the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Hugo Sánchez have lifted the award, keeping his name alive through generations.

For fans visiting Bilbao today, Pichichi’s legacy is still present.

His bust stands proudly at San Mamés, where visiting teams lay floral tributes before their first matches at the stadium—a unique tradition that reflects the respect he commands more than a century after his debut.

Pichichi may have lived a brief life, but his legend continues, reminding football of its roots and celebrating the art of scoring goals.