Juan Francisco Torres Belen, born 9 January 1985, was once in the ranks of the Real Madrid academy and even played a mere six games with Atletico’s cross-city rivals, however he forms part of the long list of unwanted Real Madrid youth talents which include the likes of Juan Mata and Roberto Soldado.
A natural winger throughout his career, Juanfran moved to Atletico from Osasuna in the 2011 January transfer season, and what looked like another useless Atletico signing has become one of the world’s deadliest right-backs thanks to the managerial takeover of fan favourite, Diego Pablo Simeone, who has continuously kept his faith in him.
Under Simeone, Juanfran has also gained himself a place in the Spanish national squad and cemented his place as the starting right-back, especially after his brilliant performance against Belarus on Saturday night. Like many others such as Gabi, Tiago and Raul Garcia, Juanfran has exceeded his maximum capabilities under Simeone.
Last season, Juanfran formed part of perhaps Europe’s best back unit, playing almost every match. His form managed to impress Vicente del Bosque who included him in his 23-man squad for Brazil, although he was not given a starting spot. However, it is this season that Juanfran has managed to peak and attract media attention through his much improved attacking work. With four assists, he lies second behind Koke in the Atleti assist figures, one of these passes coming in Los Rojiblanco’s win over arch rivals Real Madrid in September.
Nevertheless, Juanfran is frequently seen in the attacking third, always giving an attacking option, with the ability and confidence to take on defenders in one-on-one situations and he has continuously helped the Spanish Champions break the deadlock. Moreover, he certainly does not lack commitment as he gives his full 100% out on the pitch and during last season’s agonising Champions League Final defeat he played on, limping despite sustaining an injury in extra time.
His development has not gone unnoticed and recently Simeone said that “when Juanfran is good, the team has both a right-back and a winger in the same position,” and with Atletico becoming more and more successful the standards are rising and Juanfran has exceeded these standards, playing every match this season bar one against Valencia, which the team lost.
In addition, he further showed that this form can also extend to his national side with a brilliant performance on Saturday. With much of the season ahead if his form remains at the current level, Los Colchoneros’ chances of retaining the title will be a great deal higher.
