Spanish football has produced several world-class goalkeepers throughout its history, but there is a certain name that's seen by many as the greatest to have come from the country. That player was none other than Ricardo Zamora.
He was known for his unique appearance at the time, wearing a cloth cap and a white polo-neck jumper on the field. The ironic get up was later sported by several goalkeepers as well. Zamora was prominent for his excellence when it came to athleticism, quick reflexes and shot-stopping abilities.
The former Spanish goalie played the majority of his career in his homeland, including spells at giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. Let us now look back at this legend's memorable club career.
The Espanyol and Barcelona years
Born in Barcelona, Zamora began his football life as a junior with Universitari SC. This was followed by his signing for Espanyol in 1916, just at the age of 15. His debut came against Madrid FC (now Real Madrid), and the Spaniard managed to keep a clean sheet with the match ending 0-0. It was the sign of great things to come, as Zamora soon led Espanyol the Campionat de Catalunya in 1918.
Despite his brilliance as a player and passion for football, Zamora's family wanted him to focus on studies. This led to his early departure from Espanyol at the time, but he resumed his football career after receiving a large offer from local rivals FC Barcelona. He accepted this offer despite his family's opposition and an argument with Espanyol's board.
Zamora went on to have 3 successful seasons with Barcelona, winning 2 Copa del Rey titles and becoming a 3 time Catalan Champion. The Spaniard was especially instrumental in the 1920 Copa final, keeping a clean sheet in Espanyol's 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao. He was a part of the legendary Barca side at the time, managed by Jack Greenwell, and having several star players like Josep Samitier, Sagibarba, and Paulino Alcántara.
The homecoming
Zamora made a return to Espanyol in 1922. 7 years later on 2th February 1929, he made his La Liga debut with Espanyol during the competition's inaugural season. Along with manager Jack Greenwell ( who managed him at Barcelona ) and teammate Ricardo Saprissa, he helped the club win both the Campionat de Catalunya and their first ever Copa del Rey in 1929. Espanyol's Copa run was nothing short of legendary, as they beat Atlético Madrid in the quarters, Barca in the semis, and ultimately Real Madrid in the final.
Madrid come calling
It was in 1930 that Zamora made the move to Los Blancos. He was one of the main arrivals for Madrid at the time, along with Jacinto Quincoces, who was considered as one of the greatest defenders of the inter-war era.
Zamora played a key role in Madrid's maiden La Liga triumph, which they won in the 1931–32 campaign. Madrid were further strengthened by the arrival of star forward Josep Samitier in the following summer, who combined with Zamora and Quincoces to help Los Blancos retain the league title.
The Spanish goalkeeper enjoyed further silverware success at the club, adding 2 Copa de España titles to his cabinet. Madrid beat Valencia 2-1 in the 1934 final, with the latter ironically being coached by Jack Greenwell. The 1936 final was the first ever final between Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Los Blancos emerged victorious in the end, beating their rivals 2-0. Zamora played a heroic role in the final, with Barca forward Josep Escolà's spectacular shot during the final minutes being saved by Zamora.
After 6 years in Madrid, Zamora left Spain for the first time and joined French club Nice. He eventually retired from football after a year at Nice, leaving behind a legacy that will be eternal.
