Juan José Valencia

Athletic Bilbao

Born in San Sebastián, Basque Country, Valencia joined Athletic Bilbao for his last year as a junior, being signed from neighbouring Antiguoko. He was loaned to Segunda División B club Barakaldo CF to start his senior career, but was quickly recalled to play for Athletic's reserves, helping them retain their place in Segunda División. Valencia made an immediate impact at the first team at the age of 20, replacing the departing Patxi Iru. When Kike Burgos was injured in pre-season, manager Jupp Heynckes gave him a first La Liga start against Cádiz CF in the opening game of the 1992–93 season (Julen Guerrero made his debut in the same game). He only missed a combined eight league matches in his first four years, but subsequently began to be challenged by Imanol Etxeberria. Valencia fell completely out of favour under Luis Fernández and, after 195 appearances in official competitions, signed with fellow league side Sevilla FC.

Later years

Sevilla began 1999–2000 with Valencia as their starting goalkeeper, but during the winter of what was to be a campaign ending with relegation in last place, Norway international goalkeeper Frode Olsen arrived and took the starting spot, so in April 2000 the former accepted an opportunity to move on to Sporting de Gijón in the second level to cover an injury crisis. He was first choice in the next three seasons, totalling 106 league games. In 2003–04 he was overtaken by the emerging Roberto, and eventually…

Valencia was an important member of the Spain under-21 squad during his eligible years, making his debut at that level two days after his league bow. During his most impressive spell with Athletic he was in consideration for the senior team, but only managed one bench appearance in a friendly against Germany in February 1995. Valencia took part in one match with the unofficial Basque Country team, in December 1995.

Valencia worked as a restaurateur in partnership with some former teammates, and was also an enthusiast of the racquet sport padel.

Spain U21

UEFA European Under-21 Championship third place: 1994