A decisive goal against West Germany in the 1986 FIFA World Cup final cemented Jorge Luis Burruchaga’s place in football history. The attacking midfielder and forward scored the winning point in a 3–2 victory, marking a career highlight that defined his contribution to the sport while playing for his home nation of Argentina.
Early Career and Independiente
Born in Gualeguay in 1962, Burruchaga began his professional journey with Arsenal de Sarandí in 1980 during their time in the second division. He moved to Independiente in 1982, debuting on 12 February against Estudiantes de La Plata. During this initial tenure, he secured the 1983 Metropolitano title, the 1984 Copa Libertadores, and the 1984 Intercontinental Cup.
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Burruchaga spent seven years playing for the French team Nantes before joining Valenciennes for one season. While at Valenciennes, he became embroiled in a bribery scandal involving Olympique de Marseille. Although he initially agreed to participate in throwing a game on 20 May 1993, he reportedly changed his mind. Regardless, he received a suspended six-month jail sentence on 15 May 1995.
Return to Argentina and Retirement
Following his French career, he returned to Independiente in 1995. During this second spell, he captured both the Supercopa Sudamericana and the Recopa Sudamericana. He concluded his professional playing career on 10 April 1998, following a final match against Vélez Sársfield.
Managerial Trajectory
His transition to coaching began at Arsenal de Sarandí in 2002. He subsequently held managerial roles at Estudiantes de La Plata, Independiente, Banfield, and the Paraguayan club Libertad. He also oversaw Atletico Rafaela twice, between 2012 and 2014, and again in 2015. In 2018, he served as the general manager for the Argentina national team at the FIFA World Cup.
Fast facts
- Born: 9 October 1962, Gualeguay
- International goals: 13 in 59 matches
- 1986 World Cup achievement: Winning goal scorer
- Managerial roles: Arsenal de Sarandí, Independiente, Banfield, Club Libertad, Atletico Rafaela
- Notable club honors: 1984 Copa Libertadores
- Family: Father of Mauro Burruchaga and Román Burruchaga
Questions readers ask
How many goals did Jorge Burruchaga score for Argentina?
He scored 13 goals in 59 appearances between 1983 and 1990.
What was his role in the 2018 FIFA World Cup?
He served as the general manager of the Argentina national football team.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
