Albert Jorquera


Albert Jorquera Fortià is a Spanish retired footballer who played as a goalkeeper.
He spent the bulk of his professional career with Barcelona, but could never be more than second or third-choice at his main club, which he left in 2009.

Club career

Born in Bescanó, Girona, Catalonia, Jorquera started playing in FC Barcelona's youth ranks in 1994. After that he went to its C-team in 1998, being promoted to FC Barcelona B the following year.
After loan stints with third division clubs AD Ceuta and CE Mataró, Jorquera returned as first-choice for the reserves. His first appearance in La Liga was against Athletic Bilbao on 17 January 2004 and, the following season, following the departure of unsettled Rüştü Reçber, he joined the main squad permanently.
In March 2007, Jorquera agreed to a contract extension at Barcelona until June 2008. However, on 29 December, playing an unofficial game for the Catalonia national team, he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury to his right knee, which kept him out of the pitches for six months; eventually, RC Celta de Vigo's José Manuel Pinto was brought in until the end of the campaign.
In March 2008, Jorquera's contract was extended again, this time running until summer 2010. On 9 December he got his first start in 2008–09, playing in a 2–3 home loss against FC Shakhtar Donetsk in the last UEFA Champions League group stage match – Víctor Valdés, amongst other regulars, was being rested for El Clásico against Real Madrid, the following Saturday; additionally, Pinto had previously been cast as the starter in the Copa del Rey.
In August 2009, Jorquera signed with Girona FC of the second level, with Barcelona having the right to recall him if needed. After starting throughout most of the season, however, the 31-year-old announced his retirement, citing personal reasons.

Style of play

A tall, consistent and well-rounded goalkeeper, Jorquera was known mainly for his reflexes, anticipation and agility. He also stood out for his work-rate, determination, character and mentality throughout his career.

Personal life

Jorquera was cousin of another Barcelona youth graduate, Marc Crosas. Professionally, he played for Celtic amongst other clubs.
After retiring, he took advantage of his gemology degree from the University of Barcelona and joined the family's jewellery business.

Club statistics

Honours

Barcelona