José Manuel Ochotorena

International career Ochotorena earned one cap for Spain, taking the place of Andoni Zubizarreta for the final ten minutes of a friendly against Poland in A Coruña on 20 September 1989. He was included in the final squad for the 1990 FIFA World Cup, alongside Zubizarreta and Juan Carlos Ablanedo.

Coaching career After retiring, Ochotorena assumed goalkeeping coach duties at both Valencia and the Spain national team. When his compatriot Rafael Benítez joined Premier League club Liverpool in July 2004, he replaced Joe Corrigan. During his time at Anfield, the side won the 2004–05 UEFA Champions League, the 2005 UEFA Super Cup and the 2005–06 FA Cup, finishing runners-up in the 2006–07 Champions League.

Ochotorena returned to Valencia once again in the summer of 2007, being replaced at Liverpool by Xavi Valero. He also continued to work with Spain, leaving his post in February 2021. He remained at the Mestalla Stadium for the rest of his career, taking part in the team’s 2018–19 Copa del Rey triumph.

Death After nearly four decades dedicated to football, Ochotorena retired to his home in Valencia. His health declined in his final years due to an aggressive form of cancer, which he had battled for a long time. He died in the early hours of 26 October 2025, at the age of 64.

Ochotorena's passing was widely mourned across Spanish and European football, reflecting the respect he earned during his long career as both player and coach.

Real Madrid La Liga: 1985–86, 1987–88 Copa de la Liga: 1985 UEFA Cup: 1984–85, 1985–86