Biography
Who is Ernesto Valverde?
Early life and playing career
Ernesto Valverde was born on February 9, 1964, in Viandar de la Vera, Spain. During his fourteen-year professional career as a forward, he played for six different teams. He made his professional debut in the Segunda Division with Alavest and Sestao before moving to Espanyol in 1986. His performances in the top tier of Spanish football earned him attention, and he later joined Barcelona.
While playing for Barcelona, Ernesto won a Copa del Rey and a European Cup Winners' Cup. He subsequently moved to Athletic Bilbao, spending six seasons with the Basque club. He also played for Mallorca before retiring from professional football. In addition to his club career, he made one appearance for the Spain national team in 1990 during a UEFA Euro qualifier against Iceland.
Managerial career highlights
After retiring as a player, Ernesto immediately began his coaching career within the youth departments of Athletic Bilbao. He eventually took charge of the main squad and guided them to a fifth-place finish in the league. He later took over managerial duties at Espanyol, leading the Catalan side to the UEFA Cup final. His success in Spain caught the attention of international clubs, leading him to Greece.
Ernesto joined Olympiacos and won the Super League Greece in his debut campaign, securing a domestic double by winning the cup as well. After a brief spell at Villarreal and a return to Olympiacos, he moved back to Spanish football to manage Valencia. He later returned for a second and third spell at Athletic Bilbao, setting club records for matches managed and victories.
Personal life and photography
Outside of football, Ernesto maintains a keen interest in photography. His photographic work has been successfully published and exhibited. He also has a younger brother named Mikel Valverde, who works as a cartoonist. Ernesto spent his infancy moving to the Basque Country, where he spent much of his childhood and later established deep ties through his playing and coaching career.
Birthday and age
Ernesto Valverde was born on February 9, 1964, which makes Ernesto 62 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. Ernesto shares the date with 68 other famous people.
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