Koke

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4 Apr 2024

Koke

Jorge Resurrección Merodio, commonly known as Koke, was born on 8 January 1992. He is a Spanish professional footballer renowned for his role as a midfielder for La Liga stalwart Atlético Madrid, a team he also captains, and the Spain national team.
His entire career has been dedicated to Atlético Madrid since his induction into the first team in 2009. Over the years, he has amassed an impressive record, participating in more than 600 competitive matches for the club. Throughout his tenure, Koke has celebrated numerous successes, including clinching the 2013–14 and 2020–21 La Liga titles, securing two Europa League triumphs, and claiming two UEFA Super Cup trophies. Additionally, he was a finalist in the UEFA Champions League in both 2014 and 2016.

Koke's international achievements are equally noteworthy. He played a pivotal role in securing the 2013 European Championship title with the Spain under-21 team. That same year marked his debut for the senior national team, initiating a remarkable international career that has seen him represent Spain in three World Cups and two European Championships.
Koke, born in Madrid, began his journey with Atlético Madrid's youth system at the tender age of eight. His inaugural appearance for the first team occurred on 19 September 2009, during the second half of a challenging 5–2 away encounter against FC Barcelona, where he replaced Paulo Assunção as a substitute. Throughout that season, he made three additional appearances.

Notably, Koke clinched his maiden league goal for Atlético against Sevilla FC on 26 February 2011. His well-timed header, off a Diego Forlán cross, leveled the score to 1–1 in what ended as a 2–2 home draw. Concluding his debut full season as a professional, he accumulated 17 games and two goals, with another memorable strike against RCD Espanyol in a 2–2 draw, helping Atlético finish seventh and secure qualification for the UEFA Europa League.
During the 2011–12 season, Koke continued to be a vital asset in Atlético's midfield under the guidance of Gregorio Manzano and later Diego Simeone. His first league goal of the campaign came on 29 April 2012, initiating the scoring in the 62nd minute of a crucial 2–2 away draw against Real Betis. Additionally, he played a significant role in the club's triumphant Europa League campaign, contributing a 90th-minute substitute appearance in the 3–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the final.

Despite his young age of 20/21, Koke showcased remarkable consistency during the 2012–13 season, starting in 38 out of his 48 official appearances and scoring three goals. His standout performance included 112 minutes of play in the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid, held at the Santiago Bernabéu. Additionally, he displayed growing prowess in passing, both from set pieces and open play.
Koke continued to impress in the following seasons, notably scoring significant goals, such as his first UEFA Champions League goal against Barcelona in April 2014. He further solidified his status as a key player for Atlético, consistently delivering assists and earning accolades like La Liga Player of the Month.

Throughout his illustrious career, Koke achieved numerous milestones, including signing multiple contract extensions with Atlético Madrid and reaching impressive appearance figures for the club. His contributions on the field and leadership qualities culminated in him being appointed team captain after the departure of Diego Godín.
Koke's international journey began with the Spain under-20 squad during the 2011 FIFA World Cup in Colombia, where they reached the quarter-finals. Despite missing his penalty in the last-16 shootout against South Korea, his team managed to advance.

He continued to represent Spain at various levels, including featuring in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London and participating in all three games as the tournament ended at the group stage for the nation. Koke also played a crucial role for the under-21 team at the 2013 UEFA European Championship, where Spain emerged victorious by defeating Italy 4–2 in the final, with Koke being named to the team of the tournament.
Koke's debut for the senior national team came on 14 August 2013, during a friendly match against Ecuador. He made his competitive debut on 6 September of the same year in a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Finland, playing the full 90 minutes in a 2–0 victory.

His inclusion in Spain's 30-man provisional squad for the 2014 World Cup highlighted his growing importance, and he was ultimately selected for the final squad. Although he couldn't alter the scoreline in his debut World Cup match against Chile, he started in the final group game, a 3–0 victory over Australia.
Koke's journey continued as he was chosen by manager Julen Lopetegui for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Despite his efforts, Spain faced a disappointing exit after a round-of-16 shootout loss against the hosts, during which Koke was one of the Spanish players to miss his attempt.

After a hiatus of two years from international duty, Koke returned to the national team on 11 November 2020, where he captained the country for the first time in a friendly draw against the Netherlands. His consistent performances led to his inclusion in the 24-man squad for Euro 2020 in May of the following year.
Koke's predominant right-footedness doesn't limit his versatility on the field, as he demonstrates proficiency across various midfield positions, whether on the right, left, or centrally. Renowned for his exceptional passing skills and knack for creating scoring opportunities, Koke's adaptability is a testament to his footballing intelligence.
His prowess hasn't gone unnoticed, earning praise from notable figures in the footballing world. Barcelona legend Xavi, in particular, hailed Koke as his successor, citing his blend of talent, physical prowess, and footballing acumen. Xavi envisioned Koke as the linchpin of Spain's midfield for the next decade, highlighting his admiration for the player's extraordinary abilities.