Juan Carlos Unzué, a former player, coach, and a prominent figure in the fight against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), has been a recognizable voice in the broadcasts of ‘DAZN’. With his technical analysis and passion for football, he has shared his tactical knowledge with fans during some of the LaLiga EA Sports matches over the last three seasons. Unzué’s unique perspective, combining his experience as a player and coach, has brought a distinctive value to the broadcasts, making the game more enjoyable and insightful for the audience.
As he bids farewell to his role as a commentator, Unzué expressed his gratitude, saying, “You’ve given me the opportunity to watch games with a coach’s eye. I want to announce that, due to my respiratory limitations, I need to make more of an effort to speak, so I think it’s time for me to stop commenting on ‘DAZN’ matches, much to my regret.” This decision comes as a result of his ongoing battle with ALS, which he was diagnosed with in 2020. Unzué has been open about his condition, and his courage in sharing his journey has inspired many.
Throughout his conversation, Unzué spoke candidly about his current state and the progression of the disease. “Mentally, I’m doing well, I’m calm and prepared for what’s to come,” he said. “But physically, I can feel my respiratory capacity decreasing.” He also acknowledged that, despite his desire to continue commenting, his health no longer allows him to keep up with the demands of live broadcasts. “I’ve been in a wheelchair for almost four years, but lately, especially this winter, after a couple of bouts of bronchitis, I’ve noticed that my respiratory issues are holding me back a bit more, and it’s limiting me.”
A Tireless Fighter for ALS Patients
Unzué also took the opportunity to send a powerful message about the need for support for people with ALS. “As a society, as a country, we cannot allow a single person to feel forced to give up on life because they lack the necessary assistance that comes with the ALS law.” His advocacy for ALS awareness and support has been unwavering, and his dedication to helping others has made a significant impact.
Since joining ‘DAZN’, Unzué has left an indelible mark with his ability to analyze the game from a unique perspective, combining his experience as a player and coach with his charisma and approachability. His presence has added a distinctive value to the LaLiga broadcasts on DAZN, allowing viewers to enjoy a detailed and enriching analysis. As he steps away from his role as a commentator, Unzué’s legacy will continue to inspire and educate football fans around the world.
Unzué’s diagnosis with ALS in 2020 was a turning point in his life, but he has faced it with courage and determination. He publicly announced his diagnosis in a press conference, saying, “It wasn’t a huge shock because I had already been feeling that something was wrong with my body for about a year and a half, and I was visiting neurologists.” His openness and willingness to share his journey have helped raise awareness about ALS and the importance of supporting those affected by the disease.
- Unzué’s experience as a player and coach has given him a unique perspective on the game.
- His advocacy for ALS awareness and support has made a significant impact.
- Unzué’s legacy will continue to inspire and educate football fans around the world.