- The football world has been hit with yet another heartbreaking loss following the passing of a true icon
- Jose Manuel Ochotorena, one of the most respected figures in goalkeeping, both for his exploits on the pitch and his later work as a coach, has died
- Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with Real Madrid and Liverpool among the clubs leading the mourning
The global football fraternity is grieving the death of Jose Manuel Ochotorena, the former Liverpool goalkeeper’s coach, who passed away at the age of 64 on October 27, 2025.
His passing has sent ripples across the sport, prompting an outpouring of tributes from clubs, former players, and fans who remember him not just as a great shot-stopper but as a true gentleman of the game.
Source: Getty Images
Jose Ochotorena dies at 64; tributes pour in
Ochotorena’s remarkable career stretched over two decades, during which he played for some of Europe’s most prestigious clubs, including Real Madrid and Valencia.
Known for his calm presence and sharp reflexes, he was a trusted figure between the posts.
After retiring, he devoted his life to nurturing talent as Spain’s national team goalkeeping coach, a role that cemented his legacy.
Below is a video recounting Ochotorena’s time with Valencia:
Under his guidance, Spain’s goalkeepers reached extraordinary heights, helping La Roja dominate world football with two European Championships in 2008 and 2012, and a World Cup triumph in 2010.
Before then Ochotorena spent three years at Anfield, helping the club win the Champions League in 2005 and the FA Cup in 2006, and also reached another Champions League final in 2007.
Liverpool, where Ochotorena served as goalkeeper coach, paid tribute with a heartfelt statement:
“Liverpool FC is saddened by the passing of former goalkeeper coach Jose Manuel Ochotorena. The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool FC are with Jose Manuel’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Valencia CF, where he made over 100 appearances and later trained goalkeepers, also mourned deeply on X:
“From Valencia CF, we deeply regret the passing of José Manuel Ochotorena, a Legend of our Club and a benchmark in Spanish football. Mythical goalkeeper of Valencia CF, where he earned the Zamora Trophy, he continued to forge his legend and leave an indelible mark as a goalkeeping coach. In this role, he also became a European and world champion with the Spanish national team. Our most heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones. We will miss you dearly, teammate.”
Real Madrid, where he spent six seasons, shared their condolences as well:
“Real Madrid would like to express its condolences and sympathy to his family, his teammates, and all his loved ones, as well as to all the clubs he played for,” a statement read on the club’s website.
Across social media, fans reminisced about his influence on the game and his contribution to Spain’s golden generation.
Many praised his humility and the quiet dedication that defined his career.
A Liverpool supporter, @SpecialLFC, shared:
“We have to pray for grace an forgiveness. Something is wrong we can’t keep losing people like this. RIP MANUEL.”
@ChKamran92804 added:
“Rest in peace, legend. You’ll never walk alone.”
@bitbriancrypto reflected:
“Rest in peace, your lessons shaped our goalkeepers to reach the level we are right now, YNWA.”
Ochotorena’s passing follows a difficult period for the football world, especially Liverpool.
Source: Getty Images
It will be recalled that three months ago Diogo Jota passed away in a fatal car accident alongside his younger brother, an incident which rocked the football fraternity.
As if that was not enough for the Merseysiders, just last month, Liverpool Women’s head coach Matt Beard also passed away in heartbreaking circumstances.
Ex-Ghana League star dies
In a related story, YEN.com.gh reported that former AshantiGold SC and Togo goalkeeper Nibombe Wake has died at age 51.
The sad news, confirmed on Thursday, October 16, 2025, revealed that he passed away after battling a long illness.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
