Biography
Juan Carlos Unzué, born on April 22, 1967, in Pamplona, Spain, is a former professional footballer and current coach known for his tenure as a goalkeeper. He began his career with Osasuna, making his debut in La Liga in 1986. Over the course of his playing career, Unzué represented several clubs, including FC Barcelona, where he was part of the team that won the Copa del Rey in 1990, and Sevilla FC, contributing to his reputation as a reliable and skilled goalkeeper.
Unzué's playing career spanned more than a decade, during which he amassed over 300 league appearances. After retiring in 2002, he transitioned into coaching, taking on various roles within the coaching staff of multiple clubs, including FC Barcelona. His impact as a coach was marked by his time as a goalkeeper coach, helping to develop notable talents such as Víctor Valdés and Marc-André ter Stegen.
In 2018, Unzué became the head coach of CD Lugo, leading the team in La Liga 2, where he was recognized for his tactical acumen and leadership skills. In 2020, Unzué publicly revealed his battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), bringing awareness to the disease and inspiring many with his resilience. His legacy in football is marked not only by his accomplishments on the pitch but also by his contributions to the sport as a coach and advocate for health awareness.