Francisco Garate
Francisco Gárate Bergareche was a Spanish footballer who played as a forward for Athletic Bilbao in the early 1940s. He was a key player in the Bilbao team that won the La Liga in 1935–36 and 1942–43, as well as multiple Copa del Rey titles.
Key Facts
- ›Born in Durango on 11 January 1907, Gárate began his career at Cultural Durango in 1934.
- ›He made his official debut for Athletic Bilbao on 21 October 1934, in a Biscay Championship match.
- ›Gárate was a crucial part of the team that won the 1935–36 La Liga, scoring 8 goals in 20 matches.
- ›His career was interrupted by the Spanish CIVIL War, during which he played briefly for Deportivo Alavés.
- ›Upon returning to Athletic Bilbao in 1939, he helped them win the 1942–43 La Liga and three Copa del Rey titles.
- ›He scored a total of 57 goals in 135 official matches for Athletic Bilbao.
Footballer
About Francisco Garate
Francisco Gárate Bergareche
Francisco Gárate Bergareche was a Spanish footballer who played as a forward for Athletic Bilbao during the early 1940s. Born in Durango, Biscay, on 11 January 1907, Gárate began his football career at his hometown club, Cultural Durango, in 1934.
Playing Career
Gárate soon joined Athletic Bilbao, making his official debut on 21 October 1934. He played a significant role in the Bilbao team that won the 1935–36 La Liga title, scoring 8 goals in 20 league appearances. His career was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War, during which he briefly played for Deportivo Alavés in the 1938–39 season.
Upon his return to Athletic Bilbao in 1939, Gárate continued to be a vital player. He was instrumental in the team's victory in the 1942–43 La Liga and contributed to a three-peat of Copa del Rey titles between 1943 and 1945. In total, he scored 57 goals in 135 official matches for Athletic Bilbao, including 45 goals in 104 La Liga games.
After marrying in August 1943, Gárate developed tuberculosis after being exposed to a storm, which led to his retirement. He managed to recover and briefly returned to play for Athletic Bilbao until 1946. Later that year, a benefit friendly was organized for him and fellow player José María Echevarría, who was also suffering from tuberculosis. In 1947, he was honored with a tribute match in Durango.
Managerial Career
After retiring from playing, Gárate had a brief stint as a manager, leading Barakaldo during the 1948–49 season.
Death
Francisco Gárate died in Durango on 27 September 1986, at the age of 79.
Honours
Athletic Bilbao
- La Liga: Champions (2) – 1935–36, 1942–43
- Copa del Rey: Champions (3) – 1943, 1944, 1945
- Biscay Championship: Champions (2) – 1934–35, 1939–40
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Francisco Gárate's primary role in football?
Francisco Gárate was a Spanish footballer who played as a forward. He is best known for his contributions to Athletic Bilbao.
What were Francisco Gárate's major achievements with Athletic Bilbao?
Gárate was a key player in Athletic Bilbao's victories, including the La Liga title in the 1935–36 and 1942–43 seasons. He also contributed to three Copa del Rey titles between 1943 and 1945.
How did Francisco Gárate's career unfold?
His career began in 1934 and was later interrupted by the Spanish Civil War. He returned to Athletic Bilbao and played until 1946, later managing Barakaldo briefly.
What led to Francisco Gárate's retirement from football?
Gárate contracted tuberculosis after getting soaked during a storm, which forced him to retire from playing. Although he recovered and returned to play for a few more years, the illness ultimately impacted his career.
When and where did Francisco Gárate die?
Francisco Gárate died in Durango, Spain, on 27 September 1986. He was 79 years old at the time of his death.
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