Juan Andreu
Strength from the South
European Handball Masters is proud to continue this interview series with Juan Andreu, one of the most recognizable pivots of Spanish handball in the last two decades.
Born in Seville and shaped at the six-meter line, Juan Andreu brought Andalusian character, physical strength, and competitive spirit to every stage of his career. From his beginnings in Rochelambert to top-level European handball, he built a reputation for consistency, adaptability, and two-way impact.
After establishing himself at Granollers and Ademar León, his journey led him to some of Europe’s most demanding leagues, competing in the Bundesliga and the French Starligue, and reaching European finals, domestic podiums, and the decisive rounds of the EHF Champions League.
A Spanish international on 52 occasions, he was part of the team that claimed bronze at the EHF EURO 2014. European Handball Masters sincerely thanks Juan Andreu for sharing his story with us—connecting the Masters community and future generations with the values that define elite handball: commitment, resilience, and enduring passion.
POSITION: Line player
NATIONAL TEAM: Spain
CLUB CAREER:
BM Rochelambert (2000-2004)
BM Granollers (2004-2009)
Reale Ademar de León (2009-2012)
TSV Hannover (2012-2015)
Pays d’Aix Université Club Handball (2015-2019)
Limoges Hand 87 (2019-2021)
Club Balonmano Triana (2021-2022)
HONOURS:
1 Pyrenees League title: 2007–08
European Cup Winners’ Cup runner-up: 2009–10
3rd place ASOBAL League: 2010–11
3rd place ASOBAL League: 2011–12
Champions League quarterfinalist: 2011–12
Bronze medal 2014 European Championship
CHILDHOOD / TRAINING
What really got you into handball in the beginning?
It was the sport my friends played at school. I was a big kid and I was good at it.
What was your first team and which city was it from?
My first team was my school team, San José SSCC in Seville.
What is your best memory from that childhood sports period?
We were a very good team, and with my generation we didn’t lose a single match in Seville. Winning with your classmates, who are also your childhood friends, is very special.
PROFESSIONAL CAREER
What is the hardest part of professional handball that people don’t usually know about?
I guess people already know it, but missing important moments with family and friends because we are training or playing matches.
What was the toughest moment of your career?
Injuries are always the hardest moments. When I tore the ACL in my right knee, I was going through a great professional period, with my debut for the Spanish national team. After the rehab and six months out, I had to “start my career again.”
Which coach helped you grow the most and why?
I couldn’t name just one. I think I learned something from each of them.
POST PROFESSIONAL / TRANSITION
Were you mentally prepared to stop playing handball?
Yes. I was clear about it. I had spent many years away from home and I wanted to return.
Do you think clubs prepare players well for life “after” handball?
I don’t think so. But I also don’t think it’s the clubs’ responsibility. Everyone has to be responsible for their own future.
What advice would you give to a player who is close to retirement?
When you start to feel that the end of your career is approaching, you should begin exploring all the possibilities available to continue with your life.
MASTERS BLOCK
You took part in the last European Masters in Seville. How did the opportunity come about?
A group of former players from Balonmano Proin Sevilla got together, and we wanted to play the European Championship in our own city.
What was it like to prepare again for an international competition with your friends?
It felt very natural. We were already training weekly as Proin veterans, and just talking about the European Championship gave us the extra motivation to push a bit harder in training.
What was your experience like in the competition and living together with your Masters team in Seville?
It was an incredible championship. I had already played in the Granollers Masters, but doing it at home was very special. The organization was top-level.
What do you think the Masters category brings to our sport?
It’s a way for former players to stay connected to handball as athletes.
DIRECT ADVICE
Some advice for someone returning to play in the Masters category.
Especially for the “new” veterans: remember we’re not 20 anymore. It’s important to know our physical limits. 😁
To finish, can you leave us a sentence supporting the Masters movement?
I think it’s a very beautiful way to keep enjoying our sport.
JUAN ANDREU: Strength from the South
