Former Real Madrid goalkeeper and Liverpool goalkeeping coach José Manuel Ochotorena has died aged 64 after a long illness, prompting tributes from clubs and players who hailed him as a “legend” and an “amazing person.”
Former Real Madrid goalkeeper and Liverpool goalkeeping coach José Manuel Ochotorena has died at the age of 64 after a prolonged illness. The Spaniard, who served as Liverpool’s goalkeeping coach during their 2005 Champions League triumph under Rafa Benitez, passed away on Sunday.
Ochotorena enjoyed a nearly 20-year playing career, winning three La Liga titles and two UEFA Cups with Real Madrid before becoming a cult figure at Valencia, where he also claimed the Zamora Trophy in 1990. He earned a single cap for Spain in 1989 and was part of the squad for the 1990 World Cup in Italy.
Following his retirement, he transitioned into coaching, working at Valencia, Liverpool, and with the Spanish national team between 2004 and 2021, helping Spain secure two European Championships and a World Cup.
Valencia described him as “a legend of our club and a leading figure in Spanish football,” while Real Madrid praised his “distinguished career and contribution to the game.”
Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who previously worked with Ochotorena at Valencia, paid a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, calling him “an amazing person and an amazing coach.” He added: “Thank you for everything you taught me, for believing in me, and for helping me grow, not only as a footballer but also as a person. Rest in peace, Ochoto.”
Ochotorena’s legacy as both player and mentor remains deeply etched in Spanish and European football.