At 47 years old, Sena, whose father arrived in Almería from Equatorial Guinea at the age of 13 during Franco's era, highlights his father's bravery in undertaking that journey. He himself, born in Almería, carries half of his blood from Equatorial Guinean descent. His nickname, 'Sena', is an abbreviation of his surname, coined by his coach Paco Ruiz.
His football career began on the streets, moving through teams like Los Molinos before making the leap to Almería CF. He debuted in Segunda División as a youth player, facing figures like Juan Carlos Valerón. Despite knee injuries that shortened his career, Sena fondly remembers the promotion to Segunda B in the 1999-2000 season with a predominantly Almerian squad.
“"The greatest legacy football has given me is friends. People who live kilometers away, who are abroad, and you maintain contact and open your doors to them."
After retiring from football at 28 years old, Sena sought new horizons. With the support of former teammates like Jorge Peralta, he prepared to join the Local Police of Huércal de Almería, where he has served for 14 years. Additionally, his passion for football has led him to train as a coach, and this summer he will obtain his UEFA Pro license.
Sena was also pre-selected for the Spanish Youth National Team and played a qualifying match for the Africa Cup with Equatorial Guinea. In his view, Spain is not a racist country, but rather racism is often confused with classism, based on his own experience.
“"We talk a lot about racism in the fields and in society, but Spain is not racist. What bothers people are bad attitudes and those who go through life badly."
Finally, Sena values the bonds forged in sports, considering friends as football's greatest legacy. His love for Almería is undeniable, a place he always wants to return to and considers a paradise for its climate, character, and gastronomy.
