“Nothing happens, we have Arconada”
Do you remember that chant, that song that resonated in every corner where football was played during the 80s? For many of us, Arconada was more than just a football goalkeeper; he was our hero, our idol, our inspiration.
In those days of my childhood, the goal was usually the destination of the less athletic, the ones who wore glasses or the ones who were just the last to be chosen for the teams. But with the arrival of Arconada, all that changed. Suddenly, the goal became a place of prestige, where we all wanted to be. His skill between the posts, his agility and his bravery left us speechless and inspired us to want to be like him, to dive for the ball just as much, to jump just as high.
Arconada was not just a local idol in San Sebastian, but his influence extended across the country. His legacy transcended borders; he was loved by children and adults, by fans of all teams. In an age before social media, Arconada was a symbol of admiration.
Three Zamora Trophies in a row, two Leagues and a Cup with Real Sociedad, semi-finals of the European Cup and one goal in the final, chosen as the best goalkeeper in the Euro Cups of 80 and 84. All the speculation about the white socks was false, he wore them out of superstition both at Real Sociedad and with the national team, as well as the fact that he did not change his shirt until he had lost a match, a difficult task for Real Sociedad in the 80s.
Despite his mistake in the Euro 84 final, he will always be remembered as one of Spain's first great goalkeepers. His kit was one of the most coveted gifts for children in the past and the feeling evoked when we hear testimonies about him still makes our hair stand on end.
“No problem, let’s remember Arconada”