The first edition of the Trofeo Ciudad de Zaragoza was held in May 1971, approved with a budget of 3 million pesetas that was expected to be obtained from ticket sales.

The first participants were Real Zaragoza, Anderlecht and Colonia, which opened the list of winners.

The initiative arose from the director and councilor for festivities, Antonio Mur, encouraged by various sectors of the city.

Initially it was played at the end of the season (in May), later becoming the presentation match for the Zaragoza fans (in August).

In the first editions, the Trophy was held over several days and with four teams fighting for the final victory, being one of the most important summer tournaments.