Liverpool FC is deeply saddened by the passing of former goalkeeper coach José Manuel Ochotorena, who has died at the age of 64.
Ochotorena joined the club in the summer of 2004 alongside Rafael Benítez, following their time together at Valencia, and spent three years at Anfield. During his tenure, Liverpool achieved notable success, winning the Champions League in 2005, the FA Cup in 2006, and reaching another Champions League final in 2007.
After leaving Liverpool, Ochotorena returned to Valencia’s coaching staff and also served as goalkeeper coach for the Spain national team. He was part of the backroom team during Spain’s historic run, which included consecutive European Championships in 2008 and 2012, as well as the 2010 World Cup triumph. He stepped down from his role with Spain in 2021 but continued his work at Valencia, a club for which he had made over 100 appearances as a player after moving from Real Madrid in 1988.
Born in San Sebastián, Ochotorena progressed through Real Madrid’s youth system and was part of the senior squad from 1982 to 1988, winning three La Liga titles, two UEFA Cups, and one Copa de la Liga. He also played as a goalkeeper for Tenerife, Racing Santander, and Logroñés, earning one senior international cap for Spain.
Everyone at Liverpool FC extends their heartfelt condolences to José Manuel’s family and friends during this difficult time.
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