Get to know Downs Head of Technical José Ramón Alexanko
Popularly known as “Talín”, José Ramón Alexanko (Barakaldo, Vizcaya, 1956) was a star signing for Barça in 1980 when he moved from Athletic Club.
José Ramón Alexanko is the new Sundowns Head of Technical and the spanish legend is excited for the challenge ahead at the 9 times PSL Champions.
Alexanko is among the players who have made the most appearances for FC Barcelona. He maintained his fitness and skill levels well into his thirties. So much so, that at the age of 38, he remained one of coach Johan Cruyff’s first team regulars and won the European Cup in 1992, having the honour of lifting the trophy at the old Wembley stadium.
A Spanish international on more than 30 occasions, Alexanko represented Spain in one World Cup and one European Championship.
Alexanko transitioned into coaching in the Johan Cruyff era at Barcelona, after retiring as a player in 1993.
Alexanko started his coaching career at Romanian sides FC Universitatea Craiova and FC Naţional Bucureşti. In the middle of 2000 he returned to Barcelona and worked his way up to become Barcelona’s Academy Director.
Alexanco who features in the current Pep Guardiola autobiography and is credited for giving Pep Guardiola his first managerial push, has shared many iconic moments with the managerial superstar.
Having been involved in Barcelona’s academy when Leo Messi came through the ranks, José Ramón recalls the magic that the diminutive Argentine had from a young age already.
“From the moment we saw Leo play you knew he was going to be special, and we did everything to bring him to the club” said José Ramón.
Having landed in South Africa in September the Spaniard will assume the role of Head of Technical at the club and is looking forward to the new challenge and adventure South Africa brings.
“I had heard great things about the club and the President. The President and I share a friend in, Joan Laporte (Former Director at Barcelona) who has nothing but positive things to say about the club so when the opportunity presented itself I jumped at the chance.”
Career
- Seasons at Club: 1980-1993
- Games played: 518
- Goals scored: 58
Honours
- 1 European Cup (1991/92)
- 2 European Cup Winners’ Cups (1981/82 and 1988/89)
- 1 European Super Cup (1992/93)
- 4 Leagues (1984/85, 1990/91, 1991/92 and 1992/93)
- 4 Copa del Rey (1980/81, 1982/83, 1987/88 and 1989/90)
- 3 Spanish Super Cups (1983/84, 1991/92 and 1992/93)
- 2 League Cups (1982/83, 85/86)
- 2 Generalitat Cups (1990/91 and 1992/93)
