Lezama: A pioneer of modern goalkeeping

Raimundo Pérez Lezama (Barakaldo, 1922) was one of the great goalkeeping pioneers in Athletic Club history.

One of the ‘Children of War’ evacuated to England during the Spanish Civil War, Lezama joined Southampton FC's academy youth team at 14 years of age.

After returning to the Basque Country and playing for Arenas Club, he signed for Athletic in 1940 and made his debut on 27 September 1942. Raimundo would go on to spend 16 seasons defending the Athletic goal, leaving the club in 1956/57.

 

 

Lezama stood out for his composure and confidence, but also for introducing new techniques he had learnt during his time in England.

He was ahead of his time in the way he played: he dropped the ball to his feet, launched long throws and came out of his area to sweep up through-balls. For this reason, Lezama is regarded as a pioneer of modern goalkeeping.

During his spell at Athletic, Raimundo won two LaLigas, six Copas, the 1951 Eva Duarte Cup and the 1947 Zamora Trophy. Eventually, he handed over the number one spot to a young Carmelo Cedrún, who would carry on the club’s tradition of great goalkeepers. Unique in the Team, Unique in the World.