Valencia CF pay tribute to legend José Manuel Ochotorena on ‘International Goalkeeper Day’

The figure of José Manuel Ochotorena is eternal at Valencia Club de Fútbol. From this Tuesday morning, April 14, 2026, on ‘International Goalkeeper Day’, the main training pitch at the Ciudad Deportiva -where the men’s first team trains- is renamed after the Valencia CF legend in recognition of his great legacy at the Club.

“About Ochotorena, we could define him with wisdom and humility because he always acted with great composure and, without a doubt, it would be impossible to give back to José Manuel everything he gave to the Club,” says the General Director, Javier Solís.

At this special and emotional event, attended by the family of the former goalkeeper, there were also present the General Director of Valencia CF -Javier Solís-, the CEO of Football -Ron Gourlay-, the Academy Director -Luis Martínez-, the President of the Football Federation of the Valencian Community -Salvador Gomar-, the President of the Valencia CF Footballers Association -Fernando Giner-, Valencia CF legend -José Manuel Sempere-, former Valencia CF goalkeeper -Jaume Domènech-, as well as the men’s first team squad -players and coaching staff-, the Valencia CF Femenino goalkeepers and the Academy’s goalkeeping department.

“It has been a very emotional day in which Valencia CF have honoured Ochotorena’s memory. From up there, he will be very proud that this plaque has been placed where he used to come every morning. The family are very grateful for this tribute,” says José Manuel’s son, Andoni.