Juan Luis Mora (52), a veteran Spanish goalkeeper who played for Valencia, Oviedo, Espanyol, and Levante, and represented Spain at the Olympic Games and in youth categories, shares his thoughts on the current struggles of his former teams. He spoke in an in-depth interview, analyzing their recent challenges.
The former shot-stopper believes being a goalkeeper is something you never truly leave behind. “You never stop being a sportsman, then a goalkeeper or a player. You always carry it inside you,” he said.
Reflecting on his decorated career, which includes two Copa del Rey titles, a UEFA U21 European Championship, and an Olympic appearance, Mora described it as “the culmination of a dream.” He added, “Seeing those players on TV as a kid, then becoming one yourself—playing in front of your own fans—it’s hard to put into words. I’m very grateful for that entire journey.”
When asked what stands out most—promotion to La Liga, winning a Copa del Rey, or playing in the Olympics—he replied, “Each has its own meaning. A promotion is the perfect end to a season, the reward for hard work. Winning titles is always beautiful. But representing your country and the national team is the greatest thing.”
Mora began his professional rise at Real Oviedo. After coming through Real Madrid’s youth academy and spending a season in Segunda B with his hometown club Aranjuez, he made the leap to Oviedo. “It was a wonderful time,” he recalls. “I depended on my work to reach the top, debut in La Liga. All the factors aligned: my effort, a spectacular city and team, great teammates, and a coach who believed in me, Radomir Antic. Once there, you have to repay that trust with sacrifice and fight for your dream.”
Regarding Oviedo’s recent return to La Liga after 24 years, Mora expressed disappointment. “It’s a shame. After hitting rock bottom with an administrative relegation to Tercera, the club rose from the ashes. An emblematic team. But after 24 years, returning to La Liga and seeing the dream vanish in one year—sporting decisions were not made well, and you pay the price in such a competitive league.”
He also touched on another former club, Levante. “It’s been sad to watch. They’re trying to resurge now, but they depend on others. In football, when you rely on third parties, it’s complicated. The coaching change was an attempt at revival.”
