José Arana Cruz

José Arana Cruz (6 September 1902 – unknown), also known as Patuto, was a Peruvian footballer and manager who played and oversaw several clubs in the Peruvian Primera División, as well as the national teams of Colombia in 1946 and Peru in 1947, leading the former to its first-ever title at 1946 Central American and Caribbean Games.

Playing career Born in Lima in 1902, José Arana began his football career at his hometown club Atlético Chalaco in 1918, from which he joined in the mid-1920s. He was a fierce defensive midfielder who had no qualms about scratching his opponents. He retired at Sporting Tabaco in 1933, aged 31, having enjoyed a particularly lengthy career for that time of 15 years. Arana agreed to help him, leading the recruitment efforts of ten Peruvian players and then leading the team on the field as a player-coach. Despite his achievements, Arana Cruz did not renew his contract with the Colombian Football Federation.

Honours As a player Atlético Chalaco Peruvian Primera División: Champions (1): 1930

As a manager Sport Boys Peruvian Primera División: Champions (1): 1942

Atlético Chalaco Central American and Caribbean Games: Champions (1): 1946

Atlético Chalaco Peruvian Primera División: Champions (1): 1947