Juanmi becomes 11th ‘Malaguista’ to play for Spain
Coín-born striker Juan Miguel Jiménez ‘Juanmi’ made his debut with Spain yesterday against Holland at the Amsterdam Arena, and therefore becomes the 11th Blue and Whites’ player, and 7th Málaga-born player to wear the Spain shirt.
The ‘Malaguista’ players who have worn the Spain colours begins with the legendary Migueli in 1972, as Spain took on Northern Ireland, followed by Macías and Deusto. Later in the 21st century, Rufete, Contreras, Salva, Cazorla, Monreal, Isco, and since yesterday, Juanmi have been Málaga CF players who have played for ‘La Roja’.
Juanmi also enters another exclusive group; Málaga-born players who have debuted with Spain: Antonio González 'Chuzo' was the first in 1960 when he was with Atlético de Madrid, and later the Antequera-born player was joined by Migueli, Esteban, Juanito, Fernando Hierro, Isco, Camacho and now Juanmi.
When it comes to records, Santi Cazorla, with 11 caps has played the highest number of matches with Spain whilst with the Blue and Whites. With regards to illustrious ‘Malagueños’, top of the podium is Fernando Hierro, having played 89 matches with Spain, a figure that is difficult to beat, as he is also part of the top 10 in history.