1. Overview
Ángel Zubieta Redondo (Ángel Zubieta RedondoSpanish; 17 July 1918 - 28 October 1985) was a prominent Spanish football player and manager. Born in Galdakao, Basque Country, Zubieta began his professional playing career at just 17 years old with Athletic Bilbao. He gained early recognition by becoming the youngest player ever to debut for the Spain national team at the time. His career was significantly impacted by the Spanish Civil War, leading him to play for the Basque Country national football team and later embark on a long and successful tenure with Argentine club San Lorenzo de Almagro, where he achieved significant team honors and set club records. After retiring as a player in 1956, Zubieta transitioned into management, coaching various clubs in Spain, Portugal, and Mexico. He is remembered for his remarkable longevity as a player and his contributions to both Spanish and Argentine football.
2. Early Life and Background
Ángel Zubieta Redondo was born on 17 July 1918, in Galdakao, a municipality located in the province of Biscay within the Basque Country, Spain. Details regarding his upbringing and family background beyond his birthplace are not extensively documented in available records, though his later career would see his family name become associated with football through his brother.
3. Playing Career
Ángel Zubieta's playing career spanned over two decades, marked by early success, international disruption, and significant achievements in both Spanish and Argentine football.
3.1. Early Career and Spain National Team Debut
Zubieta commenced his professional football career during the 1935-36 season, joining Athletic Bilbao at the remarkably young age of 17. His exceptional performances quickly drew attention, leading to a call-up to the Spain national team in 1936. At the time of his debut, Zubieta was only 17 years and 9 months old, making him the youngest player ever to represent Spain in an international match. This record highlighted his prodigious talent and promising future in the sport.
3.2. Spanish Civil War and South American Activities
Later in 1936, Zubieta's burgeoning career was abruptly interrupted by the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War. During this tumultuous period, he became a member of the Basque Country national football team, which undertook a significant tour of South America. This tour provided an opportunity for Basque players to continue their careers amidst the conflict. Following this period, in 1939, Zubieta was signed by the Argentine club San Lorenzo de Almagro, marking a pivotal transition in his playing journey.
3.3. Achievements at San Lorenzo
Zubieta's tenure at San Lorenzo de Almagro was the most extensive and decorated period of his playing career. He remained with the club for 13 seasons, demonstrating remarkable consistency and dedication. During his time with San Lorenzo, he played in 352 games, scoring 29 goals. This impressive number of appearances places him third on the list of San Lorenzo players with the most games for the club, a testament to his enduring presence and importance to the team. His time at the club was also highly successful in terms of team achievements, as San Lorenzo won the Argentine Primera División title in 1946, followed by the Copa Río de La Plata in the same year.
3.4. Return to Spain and Retirement
In 1952, after a successful period in Argentina, Zubieta returned to Spain. He joined Deportivo de La Coruña, where he continued to play professionally. He remained with the Galician-based club until his eventual retirement from professional football in 1956, at the age of 38. His return to Spain concluded a distinguished playing career that spanned over two decades across two continents.
4. Managerial Career
Following his retirement as a player in 1956, Ángel Zubieta transitioned into a career in football management. He held coaching positions at several clubs across three different countries. In Spain, he managed his former club Athletic Bilbao during the 1962-1963 season, and later Real Valladolid from 1963 to 1964. His managerial experience also extended to Portugal, where he coached Belenenses. Zubieta further broadened his coaching horizons in Mexico, taking charge of Real Jaén from 1969 to 1970 and Pumas UNAM from 1970 to 1974. He also returned to Argentina, where he managed Club Atlético Atlanta, among other teams, before the end of his career.
5. Honours
Ángel Zubieta achieved significant team honors during his playing career with both Athletic Bilbao and San Lorenzo.
- Athletic Bilbao
- La Liga: 1935-36
- San Lorenzo
- Argentine Primera División: 1946
- Copa Río de La Plata: 1946
6. Family
Ángel Zubieta had family connections within the football world. His brother, Santi Zubieta, also played professional football, notably for Atlético Aviación.
7. Death
Ángel Zubieta passed away on 28 October 1985, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. His death was attributed to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease.
8. Legacy and Impact
Ángel Zubieta left a notable legacy in the world of football, particularly through his remarkable achievements and records. His debut for the Spain national team at 17 years and 9 months old established him as the youngest player to achieve this feat at the time, a record that underscored his exceptional early talent. Furthermore, his extensive 13-season career with San Lorenzo de Almagro in Argentina saw him become the third-highest appearance maker for the club, playing 352 games. This longevity and consistent performance, coupled with the Argentine Primera División and Copa Río de La Plata titles he helped San Lorenzo win in 1946, solidify his place as a significant figure in the club's history and in Argentine football. His career, spanning pre- and post-Spanish Civil War eras and across continents, highlights his adaptability and enduring contribution to the sport.