Francisco José Camarasa

Francisco 'Paco' José Camarasa Castellar (born 27 September 1967) is a Spanish former professional footballer who played mainly as a central defender.

Club career Camarasa was born in Rafelbunyol, Valencian Community. For 13 professional seasons he played solely with local club Valencia CF, making his first-team debut during 1987–88 (one game, as the Che had just returned from the Segunda División). Eventually, he became an undisputed starter, making 333 competitive appearances.

Towards the end of his career, injuries and loss of form limited Camarasa to just 11 La Liga matches over four campaigns. He played a minor part in Valencia's 1999 conquest of the Copa del Rey, retiring in June of the following year at nearly 33 years of age.

Subsequently, Camarasa remained working at the Mestalla Stadium as a match delegate. In March 2020, he was one of five persons connected to the organisation that tested positive for COVID-19 during the coronavirus pandemic in Spain.

International career Camarasa earned 14 caps for Spain, and was in the squad for the 1994 FIFA World Cup, appearing 13 minutes against Germany in the group stage after coming on as a substitute for Pep Guardiola and playing the entire round-of-16 win over Switzerland (3–0).

Honours Valencia Copa del Rey: 1998–99