Víctor Valdés, defending FC Barcelona's goal for 12 years

Twelve years ago today, Víctor Valdés made his debut for FC Barcelona’s senior side under Radomir Antic. The Catalan-born player, who joined Barça’s youth programme in 1992, slowly took ownership of Barça’s goal from the Argentine Roberto Bonano. Two years later, now as the team’s first choice keeper, he was part of the team that ended FC Barcelona’s six-year La Liga title drought.

In his twelve years as Barça’s keeper, he’s won five La Liga titles, three Champions League crowns, two FIFA Club World Cups, two Copas del Rey, five Spanish Super Cups and two UEFA Super Cups. The keeper also added the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 EURO championship to his already stunning list of honours.

Last season, Valdés equalled Antoni Ramallets, who up until then was the only keeper to win five Zamora trophies. The award is given out each year to the keeper that conceded the least amount of goals in a domestic league season.

Coincidentally, Valdés shares his debut anniversary with FC Barcelona’s birthday. The Club was founded 113 years ago today.