Early Life and Football Career
Michael John Robinson was born in Leicester, England on July 12, 1958. From a young age, it was clear that he had a football talent. His professional career began at Preston North End in 1975, where his performances soon caught the attention of bigger clubs. In 1979, he moved to Manchester City, where he played as a striker.
One of the defining moments of Robinson’s football career came in 1983 when Brighton reached the FA Cup Final. Though Brighton lost to Manchester United in the replay after a dramatic 2-2 draw in the first match, Robinson’s performance was widely praised. His efforts did not go unnoticed by Liverpool, who signed him in 1983.
At Liverpool, Robinson became part of one of the greatest teams in English football history. Under the guidance of manager Joe Fagan, Robinson helped Liverpool secure the treble in 1984, winning the First Division title, the League Cup, and the European Cup. While not always a first-choice player, he was a valued squad member, known for his professionalism and team spirit.
Robinson’s international career also saw him represent the Republic of Ireland due to his Irish heritage. He earned 24 caps for the national team between 1980 and 1986, contributing with goals and vital experience.
The Move to Spain and Life Beyond Football
After leaving Liverpool, Robinson continued his playing career with Queens Park Rangers (QPR) before making a significant move to Spain, where he joined CA Osasuna in 1987. While his playing career was winding down, this move would turn out to be one of the most pivotal moments in his life.
It was in Spain that Robinson began to transition from being a footballer to a television personality. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his charismatic and thoughtful communication style, made him a natural fit for sports broadcasting. He quickly became a popular figure on Spanish television, working as a football pundit and presenter.
In the 1990s, he became the face of the football program El Día Después, a show that covered the weekend’s La Liga matches in a light-hearted, entertaining way. The program became hugely popular, and Robinson’s insightful yet humorous approach won the hearts of many viewers. For decades, he was a fixture in Spanish sports broadcasting, becoming one of the most recognizable and respected voices in the country.
The News of His Death
The response to his death was profound, with tributes pouring in from all over the globe. His former clubs, Liverpool, Manchester City, Brighton, and Osasuna, all paid tribute to him. His colleagues in the Spanish media, fans, and fellow broadcasters shared fond memories of the man they had come to know not only as a colleague but also as a friend.
Robinson had been open about his illness after being diagnosed with melanoma in December 2018. Despite undergoing treatment, he continued working, maintaining his optimistic and resilient demeanor. In his final months, his television appearances became more sporadic, but he remained a beloved figure to the end. His death was felt keenly in Spain, where he had become not only a sports broadcaster but a cultural icon.
The Funeral: A Celebration of Life and Legacy
Michael Robinson funeral held on April 30, 2020, was a small, private affair due to the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The ceremony itself was intimate, attended by his immediate family—his wife Christine and their children. The tone was one of both sadness and celebration, as his family chose to focus on the joyful moments that had defined his life. His daughter, Aimée Robinson, spoke during the service, recalling her father’s love of football, his passion for broadcasting, and his deep love for his family.
Those who could not attend in person made sure their voices were heard in tribute to Robinson. Former Liverpool teammate Kenny Dalglish, who had formed a close bond with Robinson during their time at Anfield, described him as “a kind-hearted man, always willing to help others,” and a “great person to have around.” Osasuna, the Spanish club where Robinson played and which remained close to his heart, sent messages of condolence, with fans posting messages on social media expressing their sorrow and gratitude for the joy he had brought them during his playing and broadcasting days.
Spanish football in particular felt the loss keenly. Robinson had become a key figure in the analysis of the sport in Spain, and his funeral was covered extensively in Spanish media. Several of his colleagues from El Día Después shared personal stories of their time with him, reminiscing about his humor, work ethic, and commitment to making football broadcasting entertaining and insightful.
As the news of his passing spread across social media, tributes poured in from football stars past and present. Xabi Alonso, who had spent several years at Liverpool and had also transitioned to Spanish football, called Robinson “an inspiration and a friend.” Iker Casillas, Spain’s legendary goalkeeper, shared his sadness at the loss, calling him “a reference point for all of us.”
Liverpool’s official account shared a message of condolences, while the Premier League paid its respects by holding a minute’s silence before several matches.
A Broader Legacy: Football, Broadcasting, and Humanity
Michael Robinson funeral legacy is not confined to his achievements on the football pitch or his success in sports broadcasting. He left a broad der mark on the world through his character and the way he connected with people. For many, he represented a bridge between the English and Spanish football worlds, helping to popularize Spanish football in the English-speaking world and vice versa.
His analysis of El Día Después was not just insightful, but it also showcased his ability to empathize with both players and fans. This is why his analysis resonated so deeply with so many people. His documentaries, including the highly acclaimed Informe Robinson, tackled not only football but wider social and cultural issues. He used his platform to discuss topics such as poverty, inequality, and the impact of sport on society. Even though his funeral was a private affair, the broader celebration of his life took place in the hearts and minds of the many people he had touched. His ability to bridge cultures, his passion for sport, and his kindness made him an extraordinary figure.
Conclusion
Michael Robinson’s funeral was a moment for reflection, not just on the life of a talented footballer and broadcaster but on the human qualities that made him so beloved by so many. As time passes, the legacy of Michael Robinson will continue to inspire both fans of football and those who appreciate the art of storytelling. His funeral was a solemn farewell, but the celebration of his life will continue for many years to come.