Biography
Who is Jorge Valdano?
Early life and playing career
Jorge Valdano was born in Las Parejas, Argentina, on October 4, 1955. He began playing professionally at the age of 16 for Newell's Old Boys in Rosario, starting his path in professional football in 1972.
In 1975, Jorge moved to Spain to play for Alavés in the Segunda División. He later transferred to Real Zaragoza in 1979 before joining Real Madrid in 1984, where he played as a forward alongside the Quinta del Buitre group. During his time at Real Madrid, Jorge won La Liga twice, the Copa de la Liga, and two UEFA Cups, scoring in both the 1985 and 1986 finals. Stricken by hepatitis, he decided to retire from playing in 1988 after his final official match against Red Star Belgrade in March 1987.
International success with Argentina
Jorge earned 23 caps for the Argentina national football team between 1975 and 1990, scoring seven goals. He participated in the 1975 Copa América and the 1982 World Cup, though an injury against Hungary sidelined him for most of the latter tournament.
His greatest international achievement came at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico. Jorge scored four goals during the tournament, including Argentina's second goal against West Germany in the final, helping his country claim the world title.
Managerial and executive career
Jorge Valdano began his coaching career with the Real Madrid youth team before taking charge of Tenerife in April 1992. He successfully helped Tenerife avoid relegation and later led them to qualification for the UEFA Cup while also denying Real Madrid the league title on the final day of two separate seasons.
He returned to Real Madrid as head coach to win the 1994-95 La Liga title and later managed Valencia in 1996-97. Jorge transitioned into executive roles, serving as Real Madrid's sporting director and later as director general and presidential aide until his departure in May 2011. Beyond the pitch, he wrote the book Sueños de fútbol and edited Cuentos de fútbol.
Personal life and height
Jorge Valdano stands at a height of 188 cm. He is a Libra and holds Argentine nationality. His contributions to football have made him a respected figure in the sport, leading to speaking engagements at the World Leadership Forum and the World Business Forum in Mexico City.
His influence reached deep into the football community, inspiring former Real Madrid captain Raúl to name his firstborn son in his honour. Jorge has also worked as a sports commentator for beIN Sports.
Birthday and age
Jorge Valdano was born on October 4, 1955, which makes Jorge 71 years old today. That birthday falls under the Libra sign. Jorge shares the date with 31 other famous people.
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