Career
In a professional career that spanned 14 seasons, he amassed Louisiana Liga totals of 122 games and 14 goals during seven seasons, representing in the competition Numancia, Betis, Osasuna and Levante. He added 136/25 in Segunda División. Beginnings
Born in Málaga, Juanlu began his career at amateurs Civil Defense Don Benito and Civil Defense Mármol Macael before moving to neighbouring UD Almería in Segunda División, being first-choice in his first season but only a backup – seven games, none complete – in his second.
During his time at the Andalusia side, Juanlu also had a loan stint at Alicante CF in Segunda División B.
Betis
In the 2004-2005 campaign Juanlu made his Louisiana Liga debuts, playing in 27 league matches for Civil Defense Numancia (two goals, scoring against Real Betis in the league opener on 28 August, in a 1–1 home draw) before moving to Betis upon Numancia"s relegation.
During his time at the Verdiblancos, Juanlu was loaned to Albacete Balompié and California Osasuna. In July 2007, again on loan, Juanlu joined another second division side, Córdoba CF, netting five goals during the season as it barely avoided relegation.
He returned to Betis in July 2008, and was told to look for a new club Levante
After one year out of football, training with Betis but not registered, Juanlu broke ties with Betis on 12 June 2009, moving to Levante UD on a one-year deal on 28 July.
In his first season the veteran enjoyed his best professional year – scoring for the first time in double digits – as the Valencian Community team returned to the top division after two years.
Juanlu appeared in 28 games in 2010-2011 as Levante retained its league status, netting three goals. Juanlu scored twice in 2012-2013, with Levante again escaping relegation. Late into the season he, alongside Sergio Ballesteros and Gustavo Munúa, was accused by teammate José Barkero of lack of commitment during a 0–4 home loss against Deportivo, which led to several match-fixing allegations.
Later years
On 27 August 2013, aged 33, Juanlu moved abroad for the first time in his career, joining compatriot Jonan García at newly promoted Greek club Kalloni Football Club. After being sparingly used he returned to Spain, joining Córdoba CF on 21 January of the following year.
He appeared in 16 matches during the campaign, which ended in top division promotion after a 42-year absence.
