Full Name: Jorge Cuenca Barreno
Date of Birth: 17 November 1999
Place of Birth: Madrid, Spain
Position(s): Centre-back, Left-back
Current Club: Fulham
Jersey Number: 15
Jorge Cuenca's rise in football is a story of dedication and talent. From his early days cheering on his father while playing Futsal to becoming one of Spain's most promising defenders, Cuenca's journey is filled with milestones that have shaped his career.
This article delves into the key moments and facts from his childhood to his professional achievements, highlighting the steps that have made him a standout player currently plying his trade at Fulham.
1. He is a Versatile Defender
Jorge Cuenca is known for his versatility on the field, capable of playing both as a centre-back and a left-back. This flexibility has made him a valuable asset to the teams he has played for, allowing him to adapt to different defensive roles depending on the needs of the game. His ability to effectively cover multiple positions in defence highlights his tactical awareness and skill set, making him a reliable choice for any defensive lineup.
2. His Football Career Began at Alcorcón's Youth Setup in 2015
Jorge Cuenca's football journey started in 2015 when he joined the youth setup at Alcorcón. It was here that he began to hone his skills and develop the foundational aspects of his game. Cuenca made his senior debut with Alcorcón's reserves on 12 February 2017, playing in a 1–0 Tercera División home win against FC Villanueva del Pardillo.
His time at Alcorcón was crucial in shaping his career, providing him with the platform to showcase his potential and ultimately paving the way for his progression into professional football.
3. He Played His First Professional Match on 10 March 2017
Cuenca made his professional debut on 10 March 2017, playing for Alcorcón in a Segunda División match against Elche. The game ended in a 0–0 draw, but for Cuenca, it was the beginning of his professional career.
His debut at just 17 years old was a significant achievement, signalling his arrival on the professional stage and highlighting his readiness to compete at a higher level.
4. He Became the Youngest Player to Debut for Alcorcón
At the age of 17 years and 114 days, Cuenca became the youngest player ever to debut for Alcorcón. This record was evidence of his talent and the confidence the coaching staff had in his abilities. His early debut set a club record and underscored his potential as one of the most promising young defenders in Spanish football.
5. He Joined Barça's Reserve Team in 2017
On 18 July 2017, Cuenca took a significant step in his career by signing a two-year contract with Barcelona's reserve team, Barcelona B. The transfer, valued at €400,000, marked his entry into one of Spain's most prestigious football academies. Although his first season with Barça B ended in relegation, the experience gained during this period was invaluable in his development as a player.
6. He Scored the First Official Goal at the Johan Cruyff Stadium
Jorge Cuenca made history on 1 September 2019 by scoring the first official goal at the newly inaugurated Johan Cruyff Stadium. His goal, which came during a match for Barcelona B, was commemorated with a special plate, cementing his place in the club's history. This milestone was a proud moment in Cuenca's career, reflecting his ability to make an impact in significant moments.
7. While at Villarreal, His Loan Stints to Almería and Getafe Were Beneficial
After joining Villarreal in September 2020, Cuenca was loaned out to Almería for the 2020–21 season and later to Getafe for the 2021–22 season. These loan spells were crucial for his development, providing him with regular playing time and the chance to gain experience in different competitive environments. At Almería, he became a regular starter and scored his first professional goal.
At Getafe, he gained valuable experience in La Liga, which significantly benefited his return to the Yellow Submarine. During the 2023–24 campaign, Cuenca made 37 appearances, helping Villarreal finish eighth in La Liga and reach the last 16 of the Europa League. His impressive performances led to his signing by Fulham FC in the summer of 2024.
8. He Has a Younger Brother, David, Plying His Trade at Real Madrid's Academy
Jorge Cuenca is not the only footballer in his family; his younger brother, David Cuenca, is also pursuing a career in the sport. David is currently part of Real Madrid's youth academy, one of the most prestigious football academies in the world. The Cuenca brothers share a deep passion for football, each carving their path in Spain's top football institutions.
9. He Became a Villarreal Fan by Watching His Father Play Futsal
Jorge Cuenca's love for football began at an early age, inspired by watching his father play futsal in an amateur league in Madrid. His father's futsal team, which wore yellow, left a lasting impression on young Jorge, who admired the colour and the sport.
To support his father and further his budding interest, his family gifted him a Villarreal kit, which he wore with pride. This early exposure to the colour yellow and the sport solidified his connection to Villarreal, setting the stage for his future as a devoted fan and professional footballer.
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