José Luis Pérez Caminero (Madrid, 8/11/1967) has a lengthy career in Spanish football as a First Division player and with the Spanish national team, and in recent years, has been at the helm of the sports management of Clubs such as Real Valladolid and Atlético de Madrid.
As sports director of Valladolid in the 2006/07 season, Caminero achieved a brilliant promotion to the First Division, claiming unbeaten records and points. The following year, in the top flight, Caminero extended the run by securing permanency for the ‘pucelanos’ in the elite.
Subsequently in 2011, Caminero signed as sports director of Atlético de Madrid, arriving midway through the 11/12 season to join coach, Diego Simeone, and going on to win the Europa League at the end of the season.
The former Red and Whites player continued in charge of the Club’s sports management during Atlético’s successes, with an enviable track record including a League title, Copa del Rey, two Europa League crowns, and a Spanish and European Supercopa.
As a player
Special mention must also be given to his successes as a player. Having trained in the Real Madrid youth ranks, this attacking midfielder debuted with Real Valladolid in the First Division in 1989/90, and there took his first steps as a professional, later signing to Atlético de Madrid in the 93/94 season.
Caminero reached the Spanish national team, participating in a World Cup and European Championships, with magnificent performances.
