Manuel Cortada

Manuel Cortada, often known by his screen name "Fairy_verde" or simply "Fairy," is a Spanish poker player from Seville. He has built a reputation as a steady and strategic competitor in live tournaments, particularly on the European Poker Tour circuit.

Cortada's most notable performance to date came at the 2025 PokerStars EPT Monte-Carlo in May, where he entered the €5,300 Main Event alongside 1,194 other entrants. After four days of play, he emerged as the sole Spanish survivor among eight who started Day 4, navigating a field that included notable players like Juan Pardo, Nacho Barbero, and Aleksandr Shevliakov.

Entering Day 5 with 845,000 chips (17th out of 18 remaining), Cortada faced tough competition. He was eliminated in 14th place, earning €48,450. His final hand saw him move all-in with K♣4♠ from the small blind against Kestutis Jungevicius's A♥2♦; the board ran Q♥J♣3♠Q♠7♥, and Cortada was sent to the rail.

Reporters describe Cortada as a balanced and cautious player. He is known for his patience and ability to adapt to table dynamics. In early stages, he avoids unnecessary risks, as seen when he checked back a river with top pair against Paul Lagan, preserving his stack. His style emphasizes discipline and long-term expectation over flashy bluffs.

While still early in his career, Cortada has made a mark on the Spanish poker scene. His deep run at the EPT Monte-Carlo—where he outlasted seven compatriots—demonstrated his resilience. He continues to be a player to watch in future EPT events.