Football News: Raúl González bids farewell to Real Madrid; Mesut Ozil prefers Barcelona over Real
Spain’s former captain Raul Gonzales has finally decided to make a move from his beloved Real Madrid, where he spent 18 years (that is his entire football career).
Raul, who is in his thirties, these days has been not at the centre of plans in Madrid, and is expected to sign a 2 year deal with German side Schalke.
The Madrid legend Raul said that this was one of the most difficult and emotional days of his life. The former Spanish striker was addressing the media alongside club president Florentino Perez and Real Madrid director Jorge Valdano.
Raul is an absolute icon not just in Madrid but all over Spain: he still holds the record for most number of goals for his country, i.e. 44 in 102 international appearances. Raul, during his time at Real Madrid, won 6 La Liga and 3 Champions League titles.
Raul became part of Real Madrid in 1992, but had to wait for 2 years to make his debut for the club. His first match for the senior team was against Real Zaragoza in October in 1994. Raul was just 17 at that time; he scored 323 goals for Real Madrid in 741 appearances which is also a club record.
Raul said that he cannot imagine how it would feel to play anywhere but for Real Madrid, adding that Real Madrid has been his passion, his life and he considers Madrid his only home. The front man added that when he leaves Madrid, he will leave a part of him there and would never feel complete.
He said now that he is 33, he wants to explore life beyond Madrid. He added that Real Madrid still remains his first love, but he would want to experience something new before he hangs his boots.
Raul went on to say that this is a new chapter in his life, and he would put in the same commitment for his new club as he did for Madrid. He added that he would always be there to help his former club whenever they need and in whatever capacity.
Club President Florentino Perez said that he is proud to have had Raul for so many years; Perez said that Raul has been a legend at club and his services will be missed. "Raul has won everything he has won with tireless work. He will be one of us forever. I met Raul in 2000 and one of my dreams is that every player that comes through this club has his spirit. He reflects all the values of the Madridismo," he added.
Meanwhile, as Raul bids (a tearful) farewell to Real, their other target Mesut Ozil seems to be slipping away from their hands. It is believed that the Spanish giants were hot on the heels of the German midfielder, but he is more inclined towards Madrid’s bitter rivals Barcelona.
Barcelona is reportedly getting ready to bid for the signature of Mesut Ozil. The Spanish champions are expected to fall short in their bid to sign Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal. Ozil is the man they are trying to sign if that deal breaks down.
The young midfielder made a great name for himself in the recently concluded FIFA World Cup. Ozil, since then, has shown interest in joining Barcelona, and reportedly said that he wants to be part of the football revolution at Barcelona rather than becoming just another name on the list at Real Madrid.
Ozil said that he really admires the managerial skills of Pep Guardiola; the German midfielder added that Barcelona play a lot like Germany and the quick attacking football at the La Liga side would not be a problem for him to adapt to. He went on to say that the brand of football Spain displayed in winning the World Cup is pretty much the way Barcelona play, and he is sure that the upcoming season will see them getting their hands on numerous trophies. Ozil said that he would love to be part of that campaign.
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