Andoni Zubizarreta

Legendary Spanish goalkeeper with record La Liga appearances and a European Cup winner.

Andoni Zubizarreta Urreta (born 23 October 1961) is a Spanish former professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He played for Athletic Bilbao, Barcelona, and Valencia, and is the all-time leader in La Liga appearances with 622. He won the European Cup with Barcelona in 1992 and six La Liga titles.

Quick Facts

Full name: Andoni Zubizarreta Urreta
Born: 23 October 1961
Birthplace: Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
Height: 1.87 m / 6 ft 2 in
Position: Goalkeeper
Total caps: 661

Lore & Background

Zubizarreta was the most capped player for Spain for several years, appearing in seven major international tournaments. He held the records for most appearances and clean sheets in La Liga for several years. He scored an own goal in a 3–2 group stage loss against Nigeria at the 1998 World Cup, his last competition.

Reader's Guide

Zubizarreta was known for his consistency, composure, positional sense, and leadership in goal. He was not particularly adept with the ball at his feet, which led to criticism from Johan Cruyff and his departure from Barcelona in 1994.

Did You Know?

Zubizarreta made his La Liga debut on 19 September 1981 for Athletic Bilbao in a 2–0 loss to Atlético Madrid.
He signed with Barcelona in 1986 for a record €1.7 million for a goalkeeper.
He played in over 1,000 competitive games, with 622 in La Liga.
After retiring, he served as director of football for Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao, Marseille, and Porto.