Andrés Avelino Zapico Junquera (23 April 1946 – 6 May 2019) was a Spanish professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He is remembered for his spell with one of Spain's most successful clubs and for earning recognition at the national level for his performances between the 1960s and the 1970s. Professional profile

Early life and clubs

Born in La Felguera in Asturias, Junquera began his career at local club UP Langreo before moving to the national stage. He spent the most prominent period of his career at Real Madrid, where he served as one of the club's goalkeepers during a successful era. Later he played for Real Zaragoza, contributing veteran experience before an early retirement.

Playing style and role

As a goalkeeper Junquera was valued for positional awareness and reliability. Goalkeepers of his generation were often expected to combine shot-stopping with strong command of the penalty area; Junquera's reward for consistency included individual and team recognition. His performances drew attention in domestic competitions and earned him seasonal awards.

Honours and achievements

During his time at Real Madrid he collected multiple domestic trophies and personal accolades. Notable honours include:

  • Five La Liga titles
  • Three Copa del Rey trophies
  • The Ricardo Zamora Trophy for the 1967–68 season, awarded to the goalkeeper with the lowest goals-to-games ratio in the league

Retirement and later life

Junquera retired from professional football in 1978 at the age of 32 after suffering an injury that ended his playing career prematurely. Reports from the time noted that physical problems forced him to step away from the matchday squad and transition to life after football. Retirement details

Legacy and death

Throughout Spain he is remembered as part of Real Madrid's midfield-era squads and as an example of the steady, dependable goalkeeper. His passing on 6 May 2019 was reported as due to a heart attack in Riaño, Asturias; he was 73. Obituary notice His career is often cited in histories of Spanish football for its contribution to a dominant domestic club and for earning individual recognition during a competitive period.