Biography
Who is Juanfran Torres?
Early years and professional start
Juan Francisco Torres Belén was born in the town of Crevillent in the Valencian Community of Spain. He began his path in association football as a product of the youth academy at Real Madrid. His first appearance for the main squad occurred on January 24, 2004, when he played 15 minutes during a home match against Villarreal CF.
During that initial period, he participated in a total of 11 La Liga matches for the club. Before establishing himself as a top-flight regular, he gained experience on loan at RCD Espanyol for the 2005 to 2006 season. While there, he played as a winger and scored a goal against Athletic Bilbao in March 2006.
Playing for Osasuna
Juanfran joined CA Osasuna without a transfer fee, though the deal included specific clauses regarding potential recalls. He debuted for the Navarrese team on September 24, 2006, in a victory against RC Celta de Vigo, where he also scored the second goal of the match. During his time with the club, he participated in their UEFA Cup semi-final run, appearing in nine games and scoring once.
By the 2008 to 2009 campaign, he became an essential part of the lineup. On the final matchday of that season, he secured a victory against his former club Real Madrid with a goal from 30 yards away. This result ensured the team remained in the top flight. In the following season, he achieved a personal best by scoring four goals.
Atlético Madrid achievements
In January 2011, Juanfran Torres signed a contract with Atlético Madrid lasting until 2015. He made his official debut just two days later in a Copa del Rey match against Real Madrid. Under the guidance of managers Gregorio Manzano and Diego Simeone, he transitioned into a right-back role.
He was a key part of the squad that won the 2011 to 2012 Europa League title, defeating Athletic Bilbao in the final. During his tenure, he played in two Champions League finals, including the 2014 match against Real Madrid. He eventually left the club in 2019 after making 355 appearances and winning seven major trophies, including the 2013 to 2014 national championship.
International career
Juanfran represented Spain at various youth levels, starting with a victory at the 2004 UEFA European Under-19 Championship where he was named the Golden Player. He also participated in two FIFA World Youth Championships, earning a silver medal in the United Arab Emirates. He made his senior debut for the national team on May 26, 2012, in a friendly match against Serbia.
He was a member of the squad that secured victory at the UEFA Euro 2012 tournament in Poland and Ukraine. Also, he played in the 2014 World Cup and featured in every match for Spain during the Euro 2016 competition.
Final years and retirement
After his long stint in Spain, Juanfran moved to Brazil to join São Paulo FC in August 2019. He made his debut in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A shortly after arriving and went on to make 56 appearances for the club. His time in Brazil ended in early 2021 as his contract concluded following the extended season caused by the pandemic.
Upon returning to his home country, he joined the Intercity futsal club in his hometown. With his professional football career concluded, he focused on these later activities in Spain.
Birthday and age
Juanfran Torres was born on January 9, 1985, which makes Juanfran 41 years old today. That birthday falls under the Capricorn sign. Juanfran shares the date with 67 other famous people.
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