Real Madrid CF
Name-Real Madrid Clube De Fútbol. (pronounced rey-aal mud-rid)
Established- March 6, 1902 A.D.
Location-Madrid, Spain.
Nickname-Los Blancos, Los Merengues.
Address: Avda. Concha Espina 1 ES - 28036 MADRID
Telephone: (+34) 91 398 43 00
E-Mail:
mensajes@realmadrid.com
Web Site:
http://www.realmadrid.com/
Fax: +34 913 984 383
Honorary President-Don Alfredo di Stéfano.
President-Ramon Calderon.
General Manager-Pedrag Mejatovic.
Manager- Bernd Schuster (GER).
Second Coach-Manuel Ruiz.
Physical Trainer-Walter Di Salvo.
League- Spanish La Liga.
Estadio- Santiago Bernabéu.
Capacity-80,354,
Team Outfit-White(home) .
Sponsors- adidas, audi, Telefonica, metro, mahou, coca cola, rexona men, sanitas, solan, babybel, vueling .
Real Madrid are the richest club in the world for the third consecutive time.
Television- Real Madrid TV.
Private Jet-La Saeta
History:
Who hasn't heard of Real Madrid? This famous Spanish club is one of the most renowed and successful names in world Fútbol.Over the past 100 years, arguably no other club can boast such a glorious history as the Spanish giants, their name being synonymous with glory nights and famous names. Indeed, with 9 European Cups and 30 league titles in their trophy cabinet, Madrid were voted as the best team of the 20th century by FIFA, with plenty more history to speak of, too.In The Beginning, The formation of the club was convoluted. Fútbol was introduced to the Spanish capital by immigrant professors and students, many from Oxbridge, these mainly English ex-pats forming Football Sky in 1895. A split of the club in 1900 saw New Foot-Ball de Madrid and Español de Madrid formed, with the latter splitting yet again to result in the formation of Sociedad Madrid FCIt was that team, after three further name changes that took on the mantle of Real Madrid Club de Fútbol. As suited a club of English influence, the team colours were chosen as all white, following the example of Corinthians FC back home.Even in the early days of regional league Fútbol, Madrid was to gain major honours, winning five early Copa Del Rey titles. Then, as the game went national, Madrid picked up their first two league titles in the early 1930s, but had two wait another two decades before success would come their way again.When it finally did, though, such success was to change the face of the club - and that of the modern game - forever.Unrivalled PedigreeWith players such as Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, Francisco Gento, Hector Rial, Raymond Kopa, and José Santamaria in the team, the 1950s Real Madrid side is regarded as one of the best ever.The team won domestic honours, with the championship arriving in 1953/54, 1954/55, 1956/57 and 1957/58, but it was in Europe that this side truly made their name.Indeed, in the first European Cup Final, los Merengues defeated Stade de Reims-Champagne 4-3 to lift the inaugural trophy. Four more finals and four more victories followed in the competition, culminating in what many describe as the best final ever played, Madrid thrashing Eintracht Frankfurt 7-3 at Hampden Park in Scotland in 1960.The swinging 60's saw el Real lift the Spanish league title on no fewer than eight occasions, while the European Cup belately returned to the Bernabéu following a win over FK Partizan in 1966.The good times continued into the 1970's with championships arriving in 1972, '75, '76, 78, 79 and then 1980. However, the early 80s proved an unusually lean spell for the Madrid giants, with little silverware to speak of in that time, a victory in the short-lived and much-maligned Copa de la Liga aside.Back To The TopThen, however, the club embarked on an incredible run that saw them win the league five years running (1986 to 1990), largely thanks to a world-famous quintet of fantastic talent. The Quinta del Buitre consisted of Emilio Butragueño (el Buitre), Manolo Sanchís, Martín Vazquéz, Míchel and Miguel Pardeza, comprising arguably the most memorable Madrid team since the early 60s.Into the mid-1990's and Los Merengues saw two league titles and one Copa Del Rey arrive, but it was towards the end of the century that the club finally lifted itself back to the very top of the game as they defeated Juventus in the 1998 European Cup Final.However, that victory was not enough to save then-president Lorenzo Sanz, as he lost the election soon after to construction magnate Florentino Pérez.In his early years in charge of the club, the new supremo stuck by the tried-and-trusted method of sticking with the old guard who had brought success back to Madrid. Indeed, Luis Figo was his only signing during his first season in charge. That was the summer immediately following their second European Cup win in three seasons, the men in white racking up a victory over Valencia in Paris.Then, the transfer policy changed. Pérez added Zinedine Zidane to the mix, the classy Frenchman emblematic of a new age of strengthening.The new president's vision of world superstars combined with homegrown youngsters emerged, the man himself labelling it 'los Zidanes y los Pavónes', after the stylish French midfielder and the promising, cantera-bred defender Francisco Pavón.It seemed a fitting enough way to close the century as the club was named as the Best Club of the 20th Century by FIFA. Then, perhaps a couple of years late, Madrid showed their old class once again in the Champions League final as Zidane scored an incredible winning goal at Hampden Park against Bayer Leverkusen.The league title followed a year later, but almost immediately the way the club was being run changed almost overnight. The coach, Vicente Del Bosque, was sacked, and no fewer than 16 players were allowed to leave.All ChangeThrough the door came David Beckham in a whirlwind of publicity and a clear signal that marketing was - in the eyes of sum - now as important as what was happening on the pitch. Another dreaded lean spell followed and, for many different reasons, the team suffered, enduring three seasons without winning a trophy.Several coaches came and went, as did several players, but seemingly nothing could lift the club out of the doldrums. Finally, early in 2006, Pérez resigned as president and left the way open for a new president to take over during the summer.In July, Ramón Calderón, who had been a member of Pérez's board, won the fans' vote after promising things would be different. Fabio Capello was named as the new coach and Predrag Mijatovic, who scored the winning goal for the club in the '98 European Cup Final, was installed as the new sporting director.The 2006-07 season was nothing if not eventful, the Merengues starting off in difficult fashion before racing back into life towards the end of the season. Following a head-to-head battle with Barcelona for the title, Sevilla snapping at their heels, Los Merengues lifted the trophy on the final day of the season.It was a cathartic moment for an organisation in transition, and an achievement worthy of a great club. However, the drama wasn't over: Calderón promptly sacked Capello but left Mijatovic in the director's chair as he sought out Bernd Schuster to lead the club into its title-defending season.Beckham, too, moved on, joining Ronaldo in a Bernabeu exodus - however, he was heading not to Serie A, but rather to Major League Soccer. The age of 'galacticos' as if Zidane was said to be at an end, but Real Madrid still have a wealth of global talent on their books. How will they fare as the Calderón age continues?
Era of the Galacticos-In the year 2000 Real Madrid signed the world’s top players naming them “The Galacticos”. The Players are Zinidine Zidane, Luis Figo, Ronaldo and David Beckham. Now none of them play for Real Madrid.
Title- XX The best Fútbol club of the 20th century honored by FIFA President Sepp Blatter. Title given in the year 2000 for Real Madrid’s excellence and service in the game for 100 years.
Real Madrid’s Facts
Real Madrid had and has many great players with great history-
With players such as Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, Francisco Gento, Hector Rial, Raymond Kopa, and José Santamaria in the team, the 1950s Real Madrid side is regarded as one of the best ever.
Don Alfredo di Stéfano -The Greatest Real Madrid Striker ever, the Argentinean great scored in each of all the 5 finals; the five glorious finals.
Late Ferenc Puskás-The Galloping Major played over 350 matches for Real Madrid & Hungary and scored 375 Goals.
Raul Gonzales Blanco-The Real Madrid Captain has so far appeared in 610 Matches.
Roberto Carlos-The Brazilian “Attacking” Full Back is all time top Real Madrid goal scoring defender.
Zinidine Zidane-“The Magician” also the three times World Player of the Year has given Real Madrid many big titles like the UEFA Champions league, UEFA Cup.
Ronaldo-The world’s Greatest Striker also the three times World Player of the Year scored 30 Goals in his first season at Real Madrid and also gave Real Madrid its 29th Spanish league title.
Luis Figo-The Portuguese Legend and one time World Player of the Year played great matches for Real Madrid.
Michael Owen-The Englishman had not been able to prove himself due to his injuries.
David Beckham-The Iconic football player, one of the Greatest Fútbol Players on the Earth and two time World Player of the Year Runner up signed up for Real Madrid in the year 2002 and after a 4 year title drought gave Real Madrid its 30th Spanish league title in his last year at Real Madrid.
Guti.H (Jose Maria Gutierrez Hernandez)-The Spanish Playmaker has scored for Real Madrid in many Finals like the Intercontinental cup, Spanish Super Cup etc.
Fabio Cannavaro-The Italian Captain and the World Player of the Year has yet to prove at Real Madrid.
Ruud Van Nistelrooy-The Dutchman has broken the record of Ronaldo of scoring 30 Goals in his first season at Real Madrid by scoring a record 33 Goals in his first season at Real Madrid and scoring in last 6 matches continuously.
Zinidine Zidane, Luis Figo, Ronaldo, David Beckham and Roberto Carlos are together known as “The Galacticos”.
Real Madrid is the world’s Greatest Club with the richest Fútbol History with over 70 titles.
Real Madrid has more than 2 Billion fans Worldwide. Real Madrid has on average 2 Billion TV Viewership.
The Santiago Bernabéu has capacity of 80,354. It is one of the largest Fútbol Stadiums in the World.
In the year 2002 it became the richest Fútbol Club in the world.
Real Madrid are the richest club in the world for the third consecutive time.
Don Alfredo Di Stefano’s Statue was unveiled at Valdebabas(Real Madrid’s training ground) in his honour on 17th February 2008.
Late Sir Santiago Bernabéu was the greatest president in Real Madrid’s history, in fact in world Fútbol’s history. He served Real Madrid for 36 yrs, the longest tenure of any president in the world. He had a dream of making a stadium that would be the greatest in the world and he made Chamartin-a 200,000 capacity stadium which was later renamed Santiago Bernabéu in his honor.
Real Madrid CF
UEFA club competition milestones• The most successful club in UEFA competition history, Madrid won the first five editions of the European Champion Clubs' Cup. Overall, Madrid have played in 12 European Cup finals, the most of any club, and won nine of them. They lost in 1961/62, 1963/64 and 1980/81.
UEFA Champions League milestones• Their three victories in the UEFA Champions League era have come at the expense of Juventus (1-0, 1997/98), Valencia CF (3-0, 1999/00) and Bayer 04 Leverkusen (2-1, 2001/02).
• Although they sat out the first three editions, Madrid have since taken part on 12 occasions and only FC Porto and Manchester United FC (13) have a better record. They last missed out in the 1996/97 campaign, meaning this is their eleventh in a row. Only United (12) have appeared in more consecutive editions.
UEFA club competition honours• European Champion Clubs' Cup: 1955/56, 1956/57, 1957/58, 1958/59, 1959/60, 1965/66, 1997/98, 1999/00, 2001/02• UEFA Cup: 1984/85, 1985/86• UEFA Super Cup: 2002• European/South American Cup: 1960, 1998, 2002
Ten-year record2006/07: UEFA Champions League - first knockout round2005/06: UEFA Champions League - first knockout round2004/05: UEFA Champions League - first knockout round2003/04: UEFA Champions League - quarter-finals2002/03: UEFA Champions League - semi-finals2001/02: UEFA Champions League - winners2000/01: UEFA Champions League - semi-finals1999/00: UEFA Champions League - winners1998/99: UEFA Champions League - quarter-finals1997/98: UEFA Champions League - winners
Key factsUEFA club competition• Pld: 410 W: 229 D: 74 L: 107 GF: 849 GA: 454
UEFA Champions League (group stage to final)• Pld: 133 W: 73 D: 29 L: 31 GF: 261 GA: 156
European Champion Clubs' Cup/UEFA Champions League• Pld: 305 W: 176 D: 54 L: 75 GF: 667 GA: 343
RecordsUEFA club competition• Biggest win 9-0: Real Madrid CF v Odense BK 25.10.1961, European Champion Clubs' Cup first round second leg
• Biggest home win 9-0: Real Madrid CF v Odense BK (see above for details)
• Biggest away win 0-8: Olympiakos Nicosia FC v Real Madrid CF 24.09.1969, European Champion Clubs' Cup first round first leg
• Heaviest defeat 5-0: AC Milan v Real Madrid CF 19.04.1989, European Champion Clubs' Cup semi-finals second leg 5-0: 1. FC Kaiserslautern v Real Madrid CF 17.03.1982, UEFA Cup quarter-finals second leg
• Heaviest home defeat 2-4: Real Madrid CF v FC Bayern München 29.02.2000, UEFA Champions League second group stage 0-2: Real Madrid CF v AFC Ajax 22.11.1995, UEFA Champions’ League group stage 0-2: Real Madrid CF v Odense BK 06.12.1994, UEFA Cup, third round second leg 1-3: Real Madrid CF v SK Spartak Moskva 20.03.1991, European Champion Clubs' Cup semi-finals second leg 0-2: Real Madrid CF v FC Internazionale 01.03.1967, European Champion Clubs' Cup quarter-finals second leg
• Heaviest away defeat 5-0: AC Milan v Real Madrid CF (see above for details) 5-0: 1. FC Kaiserslautern v Real Madrid CF (see above for details)
UEFA Champions League (group stage to final only) • Biggest win 6-0: Real Madrid CF v KRC Genk 25.09.2002, UEFA Champions League first group stage
• Biggest home win 6-0: Real Madrid CF v KRC Genk (see above for details)
• Biggest away win 1-5: SK Sturm Graz v Real Madrid CF 05.11.1998, UEFA Champions’ League group stage
• Heaviest defeat 3-0: Olympique Lyonnais v Real Madrid CF 13.09.2005, UEFA Champions’ League group stage 3-0: Bayer 04 Leverkusen v Real Madrid CF 15.09.2004, UEFA Champions’ League group stage 4-1: FC Bayern München v Real Madrid CF 08.03.2000, UEFA Champions League second group stage
• Heaviest home defeat 2-4: Real Madrid CF v FC Bayern München (see above for details)0-2: Real Madrid CF v AFC Ajax (see above for details)
• Heaviest away defeat 3-0: Olympique Lyonnais v Real Madrid CF (see above for details)3-0: Bayer 04 Leverkusen v Real Madrid CF (see above for details) 4-1: FC Bayern München v Real Madrid CF (see above for details)
106 YEARS OF HISTORYEl club established on 6 March 1902 was named Best Club of the 20th CenturyReal Madrid celebrates its 106 anniversary today, 6 March 2008. Throughout its robust history, the club has celebrated countless triumphs and feats. The most heralded club in Europe designated by FIFA as the Best Club of the 20th Century.
The universality of Real Madrid has no equal. The stats, in both sports and the social arena, indicate that this club is the most heralded in history and that it has the most supporters in the world. According to a 2006 Harvard University study, Real Madrid has 228 million fans spanning the globe, followed by Manchester United with 168 million. That's 60 million more than the best club from the country where fútbol was invented.
The fútbol and basketball teams lead both Spain and Europe in the number of titles won. The football team boasts of 30 league titles and nine European Cups, the first five won in consecutive years. What's more, Real Madrid is the only club to have a European Cup trophy on site for having won the competition five straight time. In basketball, Real Madrid has won more national titles and international competitions in Europe than any other team.
Real Madrid has always been at the forefront in terms of initiatives that enrichen the game of fútbol. The club was a driving force behind the European Cup. In 1904 it was a charter member of and the only club to participate in the establishment of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). During these 106 years of history, Real Madrid's prestige has only increased. In November 2002 FIFA designated it the Best Club of the 20th Century.
106 YEARS. A DECADE BY DECADE LOOK AT THE HISTORY OF REAL MADRID
Real Madrid turns 106 (I)Pre-history and first official title (1900-1910)Real Madrid will turn 106 years old on 6 March. The Club was robust in its beginning and was soon at the helm of both Madrilenian and Spanish fútbol. In its long life, the feats and successes of the Club have been unchallenged. It is the entity with the most accolades in Europe and it is acknowledged worldwide. We have chosen numerous highlights of the history of the Club which seven years ago was named by FIFA as The Best Club of the 20th Century.
The first decade of the 20th Century was taken over by events related to Real Madrid, establishing the Club as the banner of the incipient Spanish football scene. The rough first pitches, the establishment of fútbol federations, the first official title, their international debut... All this was promoted by Carlos Padrós, President of Madrid Fútbol Club and a decisive figure in the strong rooting of the sport in Spain.
Sky, direct precedentAt the start of 1897, young students at the Institución Libre de Enseñanza formed a sports group they named Fútbol Club Sky. It was the direct precedent of Madrid Fútbol Club.
Julián Palacios led the ClubAn important group of players captained by Julián Palacios left Sky. Palacios led the split and unofficially presided over the newly established Madrid Fútbol Club and its 50 members.
The pitch of marble mason EstradaThe first pitch Madrid played in was a plot of land next to the workshop of marble mason Estrada in the levelled area of Velázquez street, next to the construction works of future streets Lista (now named Ortega y Gaset) and Núñez de Balboa.
Renting of a plot of land on the Bullring's avenueThe second pitch in Real Madrid's history was a plot of land on the avenue where the Bullring was. The plot was partly co-owned by H.M. Queen María Cristina and the Counts of Villapadierna. The Club paid 150 pesetas (90 Euro cents) each year as rent and the players changed into their playing kit in a tavern called La Taurina.
I Spanish Championship is establishedTo celebrate the proclamation of Alfonso XIII as King, Madrid Fútbol Club created the first Spanish Championship. Alberto Aguilera, Mayor of the Town and Court of Madrid -as the capital was officially called back then- supported the organisation of this fútbol tournament and donated a silver cup as the prize for the winning team. The tournament took place in Madrid and Vizcaya were the victors.
The first Madrid-BarcelonaOn 13 May 1902, the semifinals of the I Spanish Championship saw the first Madrid-Barcelona clash in history. Barcelona won 3-1 thanks to the six foreigners they lined up.
Albéniz, the first Madrid player to be transferred from BarcelonaAlfonso Albéniz Jordana was the first player to leave Barcelona in order to join Madrid. On 23 May 1902, a newspaper of the time confirmed the transfer with the following lines: "We have learned that Mr. Albéniz, former notable and enthusiastic Barcelona player, has joined Real Madrid Fútbol Club, as well as other good players whose names we regrettably don't remember, but will quote in forthcoming match reports."
First trophy: two ceramic platesMadrid were invited to take part in the festivities at El Escorial in 1902. Part of the programme featured a match between Madrid and Moncloa. On 11 August 1902, next to the facade of the monastery, the clash ended with a 6-5 score favourable to Madrid. The victors were awarded two ceramic plates that represent the first trophy the Club won in its history.
Driving force behind the creation of FIFACarlos Padrós, President of Madrid 1904-08, was the creator of the Spanish Championship, the Madrid Championship in 1905 and one of the driving forces behind the creation of the Fédération Internationale de Fútbol Association in 1904.
Five-time victors of the Madrid ChampionshipAs the President of the Madrid Fútbol Club Association, Carlos Padrós felt the necessity of creating a Madrid Championship that took place for the first time in the 1904/05 season. Madrid won the short-lived tournament (9 editions) five times.
First official titleOn 18 April 1905, after eliminating Recreation San Sebastian from the Madrid Championship, Madrid faced Athletic Bilbao in the final and won thanks to a goal by Manuel Prast. This was the first official title in the history of the Club.
International debutMadrid organised a friendly game against French side Gallia to commemorate the visit of French President M. Loubert to Madrid. The match took place on 23 October 1905 and ended with a 1-1 draw. It was the first international clash to take place in the Town and Court of Madrid.
Keep the Cup of Spain trophy
Winning the Cup of Spain three consecutive years -1905, 1906 and 1907- allowed Madrid to keep the original Cup. They won the tournament again brilliantly in 1908, achieving a four-year dominance over national football.
Creation of the Spanish FAOn 4 January 1909, after a meeting at the Club with delegates from other Spanish fútbol clubs, the Spanish FA was born. Real Madrid President Adolfo Meléndez signed the foundation agreement after being named Secretary of the organisation by everyone present at the meeting. On 11 November 1909 the Spanish FA was legally registered at the Civil Government of Madrid.
Former Madrid player Berraondo founds Real SociedadJosé Ángel Berraondo played a crucial role in Madrid's success in the four Cups of Spain they won between 1905 and 1908. He was both a player and Vice-president with Arturo Meléndez at the Club, as well as Provisional President. In 1909, he returned to his home town, San Sebastián, for professional reasons and founded Real Sociedad with some colleagues.
1,000 pesetas monthly rent for the pitchIn 1910, Madrid abandoned the primitive pitch at the Bullring's avenue to move to the O'Donnell pitch, located between the streets Narváez, O'Donnell, Duque de Sesto and Fernán González. Madrid paid a month's rent of 1,000 pesetas (six Euro). The pitch was 115 metres long and 85 metres wide. Two years later, in 1912, the Club built a fence around it.
Real Madrid turns 106 (II)Bernabéu's debut to the title of Real (1911-1920)It was a decade of non-stop events in the life of the entity: The start of the Bernabéu saga, the inauguration of O'Donnell Field, the birth of the Madrid-Barcelona rivalry, Madrid's dominance in the Regional Championship, the title of Real was granted by Alfonso XIII, and the first tour of a European country. Ten years of growth which can boast of many more high points than low ones.
The Bernabéu family sets foot in the ClubAntonio, Marcelo and Santiago Bernabéu joined Madrid Fútbol Club at the start of the 20th Century and forever left their mark on its history. Antonio had the organisational talent: he was a founding member of Bologna FC and later became President of the Spanish FA, Marcelo was an outstanding player, and Santiago was everything possible for the Club: player, delegate, director, secretary, and President.
Bernabéu debuts at the age of 16Santiago Bernabéu made his Madrid debut on 3 March 1912 when he was only 16 years old. It was in a friendly against English Sports Club, and it took place at the Pradera del Corregidor, along the Manzanares River in Madrid. The Madridista squad defeated the English side 2-1, and Bernabéu, playing as a left midfielder, scored the winning goal.
Creation of the Regional FA and his first tournamentAdolfo Meléndez, two-time President of Madrid (1908-10 and 1913-16), presided over the meeting hosted by Madrid, during which the Madrilenian FA was created. Acting as Secretary, the main overseer of the Club signed the accord which, among other agreements, established the first competition between teams from the city, and whose winner would be elegible to play in the Spanish Championship.
Inauguration of O'Donnell FieldThirty-one October 1912 witnessed the inauguration of O'Donnell Field. Two days later, the headline of Spanish daily ABC read: “The match between Sporting Club of Iran and said Society was held a Madrid's field and was a booming success. Sporting Club is one of the best teams to visit Madrid. They pass very well and have a beautiful aerial game. Perhaps they missed the sandy pitch. Madrid deserve the most profound congratulations for drawing against a team as fine as Sporting.
The regional tournament decked in whiteThe Regional Championship of the city will always be linked to the history of Real Madrid. While Adolfo Meléndez, President of the Club, pushed for the creation of the tournament, the Madridistas became its domineering participant, winning 12 of the 18 editions.
Madrid-Barcelona: eternal, epic qualifierThe semifinal of the 1916 Spanish Cup between Madrid and Barcelona turned into an eternal and epic elimination round. Because away goals didn't count twice in those days, the teams had to play four matches to determine the winner. Barça won the first game in the Ciudad Condal 2-1, which Madrid later bested 4-1 on the field of the Spanish capital's Athletic, where the last two matches were also held. By the end of regulation time in the first, the score was a 4-4 draw, which ended 6-6 by the end of injury time. Finally, Madrid defeated Barcelona 4-2 in the fourth match and qualified for the final.
The hostilities beginIn the final match of the aforementioned 1916 Cup semifinals, Barcelona players walked off the pitch with seven minutes remaining in protest of the fourth goal, which they considered to be offside. During the final between Madrid and Athletic Bilbao, hosted by Español in Barcelona, the Guardia Civil, Spain's Civil Guard, had to protect Madrid players on their way into the dressing room. Later on, rocks and stones were thrown at the bus that transported the team to the hotel. The hostilities between the two Clubs had begun.
Alfonso XIII grants the title of RealOn 29 June 1920, the Club received a communiqué from the Primary Superintendent of his Majesty the King Alfonso XIII which granted Madrid the title of Real. The decision, which would change the entity's original name, was eagerly anticipated by the Madridista Directors. The name was changed from Madrid Fútbol Club to Real Madrid Club de Fútbol.
The first tour takes place in ItalyIn 1920, Madrid went on their first tour, comprised of five matches in Italy. The trip was organised by Natalio Rivas, another of the founding members of Bolonga and Madridista player. The budget for the expedition was very small, so the team was forced to eat at the cheapest restaurants they could find.
Real Madrid turns 106 (III)A spectacular leap towards the future (1921-1930)The 1920's were chalk full of events that would define Real Madrid. Most importantly, the construction of the old Chamartín, which was considered a monumental undertaking at the time. With a seating capacity of 15,000, the new stadium was a spectacular leap towards the future. In the closing years of the decade, it was Ricardo Zamora's signing that caused a national stir. In the sporting arena, Madrid, as always, were the team to beat.
Santiago Bernabéu joins Atletico for a yearPrior to the start of the 1920/21 season Santiago Bernabéu left the Madridista team for the first time since his arrival in 1912, although fans did see him play in several friendlies with the “eternal rival.” In 1921, and after donning the Athletic Madrid shirt for a match against Español, the Spanish FA denied Bernabéu authorisation to play in the semifinals of the Spanish Cup because one year had not yet passed since his Madrid departure.
The first team to wear black armbandsNowadays it's very common to see teams wearing black armbands as a sign of mourning. Madrid was the first team to ever wear the armband for such use, and they were first seen in a match against Athletic Madrid on 5 Match 1922, in honour of the deaths of Madridista Sotero Aranguren and Bilbao player Rafael Moreno “Pichichi”.
Ruete keeps Bernabéu off national teamAfter being called up several times by the national team, Santiago Bernabéu could have made his debut with Spain against Portugal in Lisbon on 17 December 1922. He was all dressed to play when national coach Julián Ruete gave Pagaza the nod instead. “I was surprised that they called me up, but even more so that they allowed me to dress but didn't play me,” stated Bernabéu.
One year at the Ciudad Lineal VelodromeReal Madrid were forced to leave O'Donnell Field in 1923 because the owner wanted to develop the land. The team, therefore, moved to the Velodrome at Ciudad Lineal, which was the first grass playing field they ever used. The grounds belonged to Arturo Soria's heirs, who then rented it to Madrid. It measured 108 metres long by 68 metres wide, and had enough room for 8,000 spectators.
Chamartín, a so-called crazy undertakingThe construction of the field at Chamartín was believed to be a crazy, monumental undertaking in 1924, but what it really was a giant leap towards the future. It was inaugurated on 17 May 1924 with a match between Real Madrid and Newcastle United. The hosts defeated the English side 3-2 in front of 15,000 onlookers, which was full-capacity for the new Madridista field. In 1947, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium was built on top of parts of this land.
The first English tourBusinessman Enrique Alcaraz was responsible for getting Real Madrid to play in England, the birthplace of fútbol, for the first time. Despite the fact that every match against the English teams ended in defeat, the British press unanimously praised Real Madrid's talent and playing style.
Pedro Parages banishes black shorts because they are jinxedReal Madrid had always dressed in white, until the 1925/26 season, when the shorts of the official kit were changed to black. A string of bad results led Club President Pedro Parages to scratch the black shorts idea because he thought they were jinxed.
Coach Santiago BernabéuIn 1926, Santiago Bernabéu was given the head coaching job when President Luis Urquijo decided to replace Juan de Cárcer. Then, in 1928, he was in charge of the team for three months after taking over for José Ángel Berraondo. During the 1932/33 season, Bernabéu became interim coach for one month between the departure of Lippo Hertzka and the arrival of Robert E. Firth.
American tour stirs excitementReal Madrid's first American tour was a big hit in Argentina, Uruguay, Peru, Cuba, Mexico and the United States. During the three and a half months the team was on the two continents, they won 16 of the matches they played. José García Echaniz was responsible for the Madridista expedition and Santiago Bernabéu was the Club representative.
The first Madrid-Atletico derbyMadrid and Atletico met for the first time on 21 February 1929 in Matchday 3 of the League Championship at the former Chamartín. It was the first official derby of the new tournament, and Madrid won 2-1 thanks to a brace by Triana, while Marín scored the lone strike for the Rojiblancos.
First League runner-upReal Madrid led the first Spanish football League for the first ten match days, and it looked like they would easily win the League title. But the Madridistas were surpassed by Arenas de Guecho and then Barcelona. Madrid retook the lead in the second-to-last matchday by defeating Arenas in what was their best game of the season. But the loss to Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés in the last match of the season kept Madrid from winning the title. They had to settle for runner-up, just one point behind Barcelona.
Zamora signing has national impactThe negotiations between Pablo Hernández Coronado and Damián Canellas, technical secretaries of Real Madrid and Español, respectively, produced the transfer of the legendary keeper to the Madridista Club. The Zamora signing caused a national stir, as Madrid paid the Catalan Club the astronomical figure of 150,000 pesetas (900€). “The Divine,” as Zamora was also known, made his Real Madrid debut on 5 October 1930 against Athletic Madrid in Matchday 4 of the Regional Championship.
Gaspar Rubio escapes MadridA strong adventurous spirit led Gaspar Rubio, a goal-scoring genius at the end of the 1930's, to join two friends and to jump aboard a Cuban-bound ship in La Coruña without Madrid's permission. Once on the Caribbean island, Rubio joined Juventud Asturiana. The Madridista Club reported him to FIFA, who forbade him from playing. Rubio then left to Mexico, which had no affiliation with FIFA, to play for España. His adventure came to an end on 10 April 1932. Madrid quickly snatched Gaspar Rubio up, but transferred him to Athletic Madrid shortly thereafter.
Real Madrid turns 106 (IV)The first two-time champion of the League (1931-1940)Real Madrid won their first League title in the fourth edition of the competition. Their majestic performances allowed them to stand undefeated in the championship. They won the title again the following year, becoming the first team in history to win the League twice. A month before the Civil War broke out in Spain in 1936, Real Madrid won the Cup of the Republic against Barcelona. When the war started, the Popular Front seized the Club, but it resurfaced thanks to the Salvation Committee three years later when the conflict ended.
A bar at the ClubAt the start of 1931, Real Madrid renewed their headquarters on 15 Caballero de Gracia Street. The Club expanded its offices and bought new furniture. President Luis de Usera and Technical Secretary Pablo Hernández Coronado had new offices built, but the greatest novelty of them all was the construction of a bar in which visitors could refresh their dry throats during football gatherings.
Real Madrid lose their crownOn 14 April 1931, the arrival of the Second Spanish Republic deprived Madrid of their royal title and the crown was taken off the logo. From then on, they went back to being known as Madrid Fútbol Club.
League champions on Barcelona's turfReal Madrid won the first of their 30 League titles in the 1931/32 season. The Madrilenian side stood undefeated in the competition that year and won with a three point advantage over Athletic Bilbao. The team won the title after drawing against Barcelona in the Catalonian city. The Whites won the League again the following year, thus becoming the first side to have won the championship twice.
Alberty, the first foreigner at Madrid Spanish Fútbol had opened itself to the rest of the continent, and on 12 June 1934 Madrid went on a European tour. During the trip, they signed Fortuna Dusseldorf's Jacob Bender, but the German FA eventually didn't allow the transfer. Months later, on 20 December, a team comprised of Spanish players faced the national team of Hungary at Chamartín Stadium in honour of the Spanish international players that took part in the Italian World Cup. After the game, Hungary goalkeeper Gyula Alberty Kiszely, signed for Madrid and became the first foreign player to play on the team in the Club's history.
The first Madrid-Barcelona Cup finalOn 21 June 1936, Madrid and Barcelona were pitted at Valencia's pitch, Mestalla, to play the final of the Cup of the Republic -the former Cup of Spain. Two early goals by Eugenio and Lecue put the Whites ahead on the scoreboard, but Escolá netted a goal for the Catalans half an hour into the game. The latter had another shot on goal in the second half that was magnificently saved by Zamora, avoiding the draw and having to go into overtime. Madrid won the Cup a month before the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War.
Seized by the Popular FrontThe war started on 18 July 1936. The same day, the Club, along with every other sports entity in the country, was seized by the Popular Front who appointed their own people to run it. That's how Juan José Vallejo came to run the Spanish FA, the Football Association of Castilla and Madrid FC at the same time. Madrid kept functioning as always at the offices on 4 Recoletos Street with Pablo Hernández Coronado acting as Secretary and Head of the sports side of the Club, and Carlos Alonso being responsible for Chamartín Stadium.
Madrid vetoed by BarcelonaPablo Hernández Coronado tried to make Madrid survive during the war, but the three steps he took trying to do so failed. He couldn't manage to get the team to play in the Valencia Championship and the Catalan Championship and his project for a European tour collapsed. The Catalan Championship started on 4 October 1936 with the following teams: Barcelona, Español, Sabadell, Gerona, Granollers and Badalona. Madrid coach Paco Bru managed to get the Catalan teams accept having Madrid in the tournament, but Barcelona vetoed them and they weren't allowed to take part in the Championship in the end.
Establishment of the Salvation CommitteeThe Salvation Committee was created when the war ended on 1 April 1939. It was presided by Adolfo Meléndez and it comprised Mssrs. Parages, Urquijo, Oliver, Coppel and Ortiz de Zárate. Its Secretary, Pablo Hernández Coronado, called up a meeting at 8 Fernanflor Street. After reviewing the appalling state Chamartín Stadium was in, Pedro Parages said, "This will be a complicated problem to solve because we will need approximately 300,000 pesetas to rehabilitate the stadium, an exorbitant sum these days."
The first full house of the post-war periodChamartín Stadium reopened on 22 October 1939 to hold the first derby of the post-war period. It was a Regional Championship fixture in which Madrid defeated Atletico 2-1. Support for fútbol didn't decrease with the war, and despite the fact that the cheapest tickets cost five pesetas -a price heavily criticised back in the day for being too expensive- the stands were full of fans that fervently rooted for their team.
Real Madrid turns 106 (V)Bernabéu begins his office as President building the new Chamartín Stadium (1941-1950)Santiago Bernabéu's arrival as President went hand in hand with the creation of a legendary team and a universal Club. A few months before the President took office, Real Madrid defeated Barcelona in the Cup of Spain 11-1. Bernabéu always looked to the future and envisioned a new stadium at Chamartín capable of holding a crowd of 75,000. This was the first challenge of this unique man.The Club recovers its crown On 1 January 1941, after recovering their crown, Madrid Football Club changed their name to Real Madrid Club de Fútbol.
Historical victory against Barcelona: 11-1In the second leg of the semifinals of the Cup of Spain of 1943, Real Madrid earned an historical victory over Barcelona, defeating the Catalans 11-1. The Whites were bitter about the 3-0 defeat at Las Corts Stadium in the first leg and the bad reception Barcelona's fans gave them. They stepped onto the pitch at Chamartín Stadium determined to earn a victory and sealed a spectacular 8-0 score at the end of the first half. At the end of the match, the score-board reflected an historical figure: 11-1. Pruden (4), Barinaga (3), “Chus” Alonso (2), Alsúa and Botella scored Real Madrid's eleven strikes, while Martín tallied Barcelona's only goal.
Bernabéu's era beginsAntonio Santos Peralba, President of Real Madrid, and the Marquis Mesa de Asta, President of Barcelona, were forced out of their jobs by the hostilities between both teams during the semifinals. In gatherings attended by outstanding figures at Real Madrid the name of Santiago Bernabéu, who had no dealings with the Club since 1935, came up. He was easily convinced to become the Club's next President and his appointment was made public on 15 September 1943. Ernesto Cotorruelo, President of the Fútbol Association of Castilla, presided the Presidency Handover between Peralba and Bernabéu, which was also attended by members of their Boards of Directors.
Chamartín cost 37 million pesetasIn spring 1943, Santos Peralba pointed out that a new stadium should be built and that it should hold a crowd of 40,000 people. Less than a year later, Santiago Bernabéu was much more ambitious in one of his Board meetings: "Gentlemen, we need a much larger Stadium and we are going to build it." Bernabéu decided to build a stadium capable of holding 75,000 people in its first stage and whose building works would amount to 37 million pesetas (222,375 Euro).
Bernabéu's first two titlesThe 1940s weren't the best of decades for Real Madrid, but they marked the start of Bernabéu's office and the Club's return to winning titles. The first were two consecutive Cups of Spain won in 1946 and 1947 after defeating Valencia 3-1 and Español 2-0, respectively.
Pioneer in having numbered shirtsOn 23 November 1947, in a game against Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium, Real Madrid became the first Spanish team to wear numbered shirts. It was Pablo Hernández Coronado's idea. The Spanish FA liked the initiative an decreed in 1948 that every team should have their players numbered in the range between 2 and 11. Once again, Real Madrid were pioneers in Spanish Fútbol.
Spectacular inauguration of the new Chamartín StadiumThe inauguration of the new Chamartín Stadium was very solemn. A mass was held on 14 December 1947, followed by a series of acts paying tribute to Santiago Bernabéu's vision and to the members whose money had financed the construction. The match between Real Madrid and Os Belenenses kicked-off at 3:30 pm when they were over. Real Madrid defeated the Portuguese side 3-1 and the new Colosseum became the pride of all Madrdismo and the envy of every Fútbol Club in Spain.
Kubala's failed signingIn 1948, Real Madrid underwent a radical renewal of their squad. Two years later, they tried to sign Ladislao Kubala, who had arrived in Spain with his then team Hungaria. Negotiations were called off because the player wanted to include his brother-in-law, Fernando Daucik, as coach in the deal and Bernabéu did not comply.
Molowny, the only Madridista in the 1950 World CupSpain achieved the great feat of getting to the quarterfinals of the Brazil 1950 World Cup and the only Real Madrid player on the squad was Luis Molowny, who stood out above his teammates in their 2-2 draw against Uruguay, who would go on to win the tournament.
Real Madrid turns 106 (VI)An exceptional decade (1951-1960)Real Madrid turned legend into myth in the 1950s. The Club celebrated its 50 year anniversary and signed Di Stéfano during this magnificent decade. The arrival of the Argentine player was an inflexion point for the Whites. The team won their first League in 21 years and Bernabéu and Saporta played key roles in the establishment of the European Cup, which Real Madrid won five years in a row. The crowning moment to the decade was the Whites' victory in the first Intercontinental Cup.Brilliant Gold Wedding Anniversary celebration- Santiago Bernabéu's administration spared no money and efforts to commemorate the Club's 50th anniversary. They celebrated several acts that amounted to 20 million pesetas in cost. A magnificent fútbol tournament was held, but the Club didn't forget about other sports and organised basketball, handball, chess, horse racing, wrestling and bull fighting competitions to celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Two extravagant Madridistas, Benito Pico and Manolo Suárez, were in charge of organising the festivities.
Di Stéfano draws attention at MillonariosMillonarios Bogotá won the fútbol trophy in the celebration after playing against Swedish side Norrkoping and Real Madrid. Alfredo di Stéfano showcased his great quality and speed in both clashes at Chamartín Stadium.
Saporta, Bernabéu's great signingGeneral Querejeta, President of the Spanish Basketball Association advised Bernabéu to sign Raimundo Saporta. The latter joined the Club after he brilliantly organised the basketball championship that took place during the 50th Anniversary celebration. From then on, he became increasingly important for Bernabéu thanks to his excellent management and diplomacy skills. Saporta expanded the Club's reach and became its "brain."
The soap opera that was Di Stéfano's signingAlfredo Di Stéfano met Santiago Bernabéu in March 1952 during the anniversary celebrations and his signing for the Club resembled a soap opera in which Santiago Bernabéu, Raimundo Saporta, Enrique Martí, Barcelona President and Technical Secretary José Samitier, Millonarios President Alfonso Senior, River Plate President Enrique Pardo and Spanish FA Board Member Armando Muñoz Calero played leading roles. Bernabéu's strategy and Martí's mistakes made Di Stéfano sign for Real Madrid.
Di Stéfano's hectic debutOn 23 September 1953, Alfredo Di Stéfano, his wife and daughters arrived in Madrid from Barcelona at 10:30 am. As soon as he entered Madrid's Atocha Railway Station, the player went to the Club, passed his medical exam, had lunch, left his family at the Emperatriz Hotel, met his new teammates in the dressing room and played his first game at 3:30 pm. It was a friendly game against Nancy won by the Whites 4-2. Di Stéfano scored his first goal as a Real Madrid player on the 67-minute mark.
Joaquín Navarro, first Spanish player to be in an All-European FIFA teamReal Madrid's Joaquín Navarro -outstanding defender also known as "The Fireman"- was the first Spanish player to play in an All-European FIFA team in Wembley as part of the 90th Anniversary celebrations of the English FA.
Third League title, 23 years laterThe first consequence of Alfredo di Stéfano's signing was winning the 1953/54 League. The Club hadn't won the title since the 1932/33 season and euphoria spread throughout Madridismo. Twenty-one years later, fans could sing the victory chant again thanks to coach Enrique Fernández.
Chamartín Stadium is renamed as Santiago Bernabéu StadiumIn the 4 January 1955 General Assembly, Messrs. Zapater and Caso proposed changing the name of the stadium to Santiago Bernabéu. The proposal was approved and the President reluctantly accepted this honour as it was the will of the Club's voting members.
Driving force behind the creation of the European CupSantiago Bernabéu was one of the people to enthusiastically embrace the proposal of Gabriel Hanot -Chief Editor of L'Equipe- of creating a European tournament to determine which was the best team in the continent. On 2 April 1955, representatives of the most prestigious football clubs in Europe heeded the call of L'Equipe Director Jacques Goddet and met at the Ambassador Hotel in Paris. Bernabéu's leadership skills amazed everyone at the meeting.
The European legend starts in GenevaReal Madrid made their European Cup debut in the competition's first edition on 8 September 1955 in Geneva against Servette. They won 2-0 thanks to goals by Muñoz and Rial. The Madrid expedition was greeted the day prior to the match in Lausanne by Queen Victoria Eugenia, Don Juan and Don Juan Carlos -currently Juan Carlos I, King of Spain.
First European championsAfter eliminating Servette and complicated sides like Partizan Belgrade and Milan, Real Madrid defeated Stade Reims in the Paris final 4-3, coming back from a 2-0 score in favour of the French side. The trophy was a 23.2 kg, 66 cm tall amphora. The 13 June 1956 victors were: Juan Alonso; Atienza, Marquitos, Lesmes; Muñoz, Zárraga; Joseíto, Marsal, Di Stéfano, Rial and Gento.
The most powerful lighting system in the worldOn 18 March 1957, the Club used the new artificial lighting system at the Bernabéu for the first time in a clash with Brazilian side Recife. 480 lights gave 1,500 lux, much more power than other European stadiums, such as Parc des Princes in Paris -130 lux- old Wembley -140 lux- and Barcelona's Las Corts -350 lux. 70,000 people saw how Real Madrid defeated Recife 5-3 in new light.
Two-time European Champion at the BernabéuOn 30 May 1957, 125,000 fans witnessed how Real Madrid were crowned European champions for the second time running at the Santiago Bernabéu after defeating Fiorentina. The Italian side's catenaccio was responsible for the 0-0 score at the end of the first half. The draw was kept on the score until the 70-minute mark, when Di Stéfano scored from a penalty that came from a tackle on Mateos. Six minutes later, Gento netted a spectacular lob that went over keeper Sarti and Real Madrid eventually won the match 2-0. Real Madrid's starting line-up was as follows: Juan Alonso; Torres, Marquitos, Lesmes; Muñoz, Zárraga; Kopa, Mateos, Di Stéfano, Rial and Gento.
Di Stéfano is awarded his first Ballon d'OrAlfredo Di Stéfano received his first Ballon d'Or from Jacques Ferrán, Director of France Football, on 23 January 1958. The ceremony was held at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium before the Real Madrid-Sevilla European match scheduled for the day. Di Stéfano scored four of the eight strikes Real Madrid tallied against the Andalusian side. Di Stéfano was awarded the Ballon d'Or again in 1959.
Three-time European ChampionReal Madrid became European champions for the third time at Heysel Stadium in Brussels after defeating Milan in overtime 3-2. The extraordinary match saw both teams showcasing professional pride. Gento's goal in overtime crowned the Whites as champions.
European kings againMadridismo triumphed again in the fourth European Cup final. The match was held in Stuttgart and Real Madrid faced an old foe: Stade Reims. The Whites earned a 2-0 victory thanks to goals by Mateos and Di Stéfano and kept their European crown. Real Madrid were already considered as the best team in Europe.
Five-time championsOn 18 May 1960, Real Madrid won their fifth consecutive European title in Glasgow, a feat that as of today stands unrivalled. Hampden Park saw how the Whites defeated Eintracht Frankfurt 7-3, thanks to four goals by the unforgettable Puskas and three by Di Stéfano.
First Intercontinental Cup championsLibertadores Cup champions Peñarol Montevideo played against European champions Real Madrid in the first Intercontinental Cup. The first leg was held in the Uruguayan capital and ended with a 0-0 draw. The second leg took place at the Bernabéu on 4 September 1960 and Real Madrid won 5-1. The starting line-up was as follows: Domínguez; Marquitos, Santamaría, Pachín; Vidal, Zárraga; Herrera, Del Sol, Di Stéfano, Puskas and Gento.
Real Madrid turns 106 (VII)The generational reshuffle was successful (1961-1970)A glorious cycle was drawing to an end after two defeats in two different European Cup finals against Benfica and Inter Milan, respectively. The decline of the players that had thrilled the whole of Europe ended with their departure from the Club. Miguel Muñoz's generational reshuffle was eventually successful. The so called "Ye-Yés” regained the European crown by winning the Club's sixth European Cup.
Madricide against BarcelonaReal Madrid were eliminated from the European Cup for the first time in November 1960 against Barcelona. English referees Ellis and Leafe played a big role in the Madridista defeat. The former allowed an unfair penalty to Barcelona at the Bernabéu and the match eventually ended with a 2-2 score. The latter disallowed four Real Madrid goals at the Camp Nou and Barcelona won 2-1. The international press heavily criticised Ellis and Leafe's performance and coined the term Madricide to describe Real Madrid's unjust elimination.
Barcelona get thrashed eleven days laterReal Madrid took revenge from their defeat against Barcelona a few days later by defeating the Catalans 5-3 at the Camp Nou on 4 December.
Exhibition at MaracanáOn 8 February 1961, the Whites played at Maracaná Stadium for the first time. They faced Vasco da Gama and earned a 2-0 score before half-time thanks to goals by Del Sol and Canario. Real Madrid were tired in the last 45 minutes and the game eventually ended in a 2-2 draw.
Seven Madridistas in the 1962 World CupPablo Hernández Coronado was the Spanish national coach for the Chile 1962 World Cup. He stirred up some controversy by not including Amancio on the squad list, but nevertheless called up Di Stéfano, Santamaría, Puskas, Pachín, Del Sol, Gento and Araquistain. Unfortunately, Di Stéfano got injured and had to miss the tournament.
Di Stéfano kidnapped for three daysAlfredo Di Stéfano was kidnapped at the Potomac Hotel in Caracas, where Real Madrid were staying during the World Club Championship. He was taken away the night of the 21 August 1963 by the Libebration Front of Venezuela. "I thought they were going to kill me," wrote the player in his autobiography Gracias, Vieja. The kidnapping had great impact and his captors got the publicity they wanted. Di Stéfano was freed three days later.
The first Real Madrid City is inauguratedThe 1956 General Assemby approved the construction of the first Real Madrid City. The grounds were inaugurated seven years later thanks to Real Madrid Vice-president Álvaro Bustamante, who promoted the idea. The opening took place on 18 May 1963. A very important international athletics meeting took place as part of the inauguration.
Di Stéfano's bitter farewellOn 27 June 1964, Alfredo Di Stéfano played his last official match as a Real Madrid man at Vienna's Prater Stadium against Inter Milan in the ninth European Cup final, which the Italian side won 3-1. Di Stéfano had a confrontation with coach Miguel Muñoz and Santiago Bernabéu took the latter's side. The President offered the player to stay at the Club to do other jobs, but he refused and signed for Español.
Five consecutive League titles... AgainReal Madrid are the only side to have won the League five consecutive times twice in the competition's 76-year history. The first time they achieved this was between the 1960/61 and 1964-65 seasons and they repeated the feat between the 1985-86 and 1989-90 seasons. No other Spanish team has been able to break this record.
The "Ye-Yés" crown themselves as European championsMiguel Muñoz's generational reshuffle of the team in 1964 was successful two years later. On 11 May 1966, Real Madrid won their sixth European Cup title at Brussel's Heysel Stadium against Partizan Belgrade, whom they defeated 2-1. This was the "Ye-Ye" team. "Ye-Ye" was how youngsters were called in Spain in the Sixties, especially those who looked like the Beatles. The team back then was formed by Araquistain; Pachín, De Felipe, Sanchís; Pirri, Zoco; Serena, Amancio, Grosso, Velázquez and Gento.
A tribute to three excellent playersThree tribute games were held to honour three legendary players at the end of the Sixties: José Emilio Santamaría (15-9-66), Alfredo di Stéfano (7-6-67) and Ferenc Puskas (26-6-69). The threesome were already a symbol of Real Madrid greatness and of the Club's history. The three became coaches at the end of their careers as players. Needless to say, the crowd gave them an incredibly warm ovation.
Real Madrid turns 106 (VIII)Bernabéu's death paved the way to a transitional period (1971-1980)Santiago Bernabéu died in the 1970s. Before his death, Miguel Muñoz left the team after coaching it for 14 years. The Club's 75th Anniversary celebration didn't receive much support. The decade saw Real Madrid play against Castilla in the final of the Spanish Championship as well as a transitional period that followed Bernabéu's death.
UEFA Cup Winners Cup finalistsReal Madrid made their debut in the no longer existent UEFA Cup Winners Cup in the 1970/71 season. They reached the final against Chelsea by defeating Hibernians, Wacker Innsbruck, Cardiff City and PSV Eindhoven. Both sides had to play the game twice at the Greek Karaikiris Stadium because the first match -held on 19 May 1971- ended in a 1-1 draw and neither team was capable of scoring the winning goal during overtime. The second clash took place two days later and Chelsea won 2-1.
Arias Navarro doesn't approve the project for a new stadiumOn 8 September 1973, Real Madrid announced their intention of demolishing the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in order to build a new venue with a capacity for 125,000 people and a parking lot beneath it for 8,000 cars. Mayor Carlos Arias Navarro's refusal to reclassify the plot of land and the letter by lawyer Luis Pascual Estevill against the project that was published in newspaper ABC put an end to the project.
Miguel Muñoz's great period endsMiguel Muñoz became coach of Real Madrid in 1960 when Fleitas Solich left. He ended up winning nine leagues, two Cups of Spain two European Cups and one Intercontinental Cup in 14 seasons. On 15 January 1974, Santiago Bernabéu ended Muñoz's period "because he had been suffering for too long". Luis Molowny, a man from the Club, replaced a living legend.
Real Madrid look to the BalkansAfter the 1974/75 season, Luis Molowny was replaced by the Yugoslavian Miljan Miljanic. He signed on 5 July 1974 and from then onwards the team played an unattractive game based on physical efforts and tactical order. This system earned the team two Leagues and one Cup of Spain in three seasons. Another Yugoslavian, Vujadin Boskov, took the reins of the team in 1979. He coached them until half way through the 1981/82 season. He won the League and the King's Cup in his first year as coach.
Prelude to the Great RecoveriesThe Santiago Bernabéu Stadium lived one of its most glorious nights on 5 November 1975. Real Madrid recovered from a 4-1 defeat in the first leg of the Last 16 round of the European Cup against Derby County. At the end of the second leg, the result was 4-1 for the Whites, which forced both teams to play overtime. Santillana scored the winning goal; this was the prelude to Real Madrid's Great Recoveries.
No support for the 75th Anniversary CelebrationsThe 75th Anniversary Celebrations had little support from the fans because of the team's bad results and Bernabéu's retirement to Santa Pola due to ill health. A tournament was organised between the national teams of Argentina and Iran, Moroccan side Mouloudia Chabia and Real Madrid. The little support was evident in a half-full, tedious match between Real Madrid and Argentina that the Whites won 1-0 thanks to a goal by Vicente del Bosque.
The Patriarch diesSantiago Bernabéu died at his home on 2 Jericó Street on 2 June 1978 six days before his 83rd birthday. His death put an end to an extraordinary 35-year Presidency at Real Madrid. Many condolences were received and deposited at the Club. A memorial service was held on 3 June in his village, Almansa, where he is buried.
Luis de Carlos takes office as PresidentAfter a brief period as interim President, Raimundo Saporta called for elections. The Club's treasurer, Luis de Carlos, resigned in order to run for President. 26 July 1978 was the deadline for candidates to apply in order to run for office. De Carlos submitted 3,352 documents endorsing his candidacy, while the rest -gynaecologist Campos Gil and florist José Daguerre- didn't get the minimum number required in time. This called off the election and Luis de Carlos was proclaimed President of Real Madrid.
The Whitest Cup finalOn 4 June 1980, the Santiago Bernabéu hosted the Cup final between Real Madrid and Castilla, the Club's second team, created on 21 July 1972. Castilla managed to defeat four First Division teams -Hércules, Athletic Bilbao, Real Sociedad and Sporting Gijon- to get to the final of the Spanish Championship. Real Madrid defeated Castilla -coached by the sorely missed Juanjo-
6-1.
Best European team of 1980France Football named Real Madrid the Best European Team of 1980. The jury took into account the two national titles the team won that year -the League and the King's Cup- and the fact that they reached the semifinals of the European Cup that season.
Real Madrid turns 106 (IX)Five straight League titles and a new record (1981-1990)The second half of the 1980's were incredible. Real Madrid won two UEFA Cups and five consecutive League titles, the fifth which set a record. It was a lustrum (1985 to 1990) during which the Whites amazed with two quintets that stirred the imagination: “El Buitre” and “The Five Machos,” whose only pending achievement during their brilliant careers was winning the European Cup.
One minute spells the difference between glory and failureThe 1980/81 season had an unpleasant finish for Madrid. On 26 April 1981, they lost the League when the victory chant was already being sung in Valladolid. Real Sociedad, who drew (2-2) against Sporting in the last minute at El Molinón claimed the title. Barely one month later, on 27 May, an Alan Kennedy goal (82nd minute) gave Liverpool the European Cup, when overtime was the only fair option.
The players strikeThe professional Real Madrid squad was one of four teams of the Primera Division to back the strike called on 11 April 1982. On that day, the Whites played at Castellón with Castilla footballers and defeated the hosts 2-1.
The Bernabéu host the 1982 World Cup finalThe final of the 1982 World Cup took place at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. In a thrilling match, Italy outplayed Germany and won 3-1. What most spectators will remember most from that 11 July 1982 was the joy that overcame Sandro Pertini, President of Italy, each time the Italian side scored.
Di Stéfano returns to the ClubWith the Presidential elections on the horizon, candidate Luis de Carlos introduced Alfredo di Stéfano and Amancio Amaro as coaches of the first team and Castilla on 19 May 1982. The Arrow left Madrid in 1964 and returned to the Club 18 years later. De Carlos defeated Ramón Mendoza in the election and Di Stéfano, who signed on for two years, won five runners-up titles in his first year as the Madridista coach.
The Arrow's second farewellOnce the 1983/84 season had ended, Alfredo di Stéfano again said goodbye to Real Madrid. Twenty-one years later he went through the same experience. His contract ended on 30 June 1984 and Luis de Carlos decided not to resign him due to the failure to achieve sporting success.
Historic downpour of goals against AnderlechtOn 12 December 1984, Emilio Butragueño became a European household name with an unforgettable performance against Anderlecht at the Bernabéu. The Belgians were coming off a 3-0 first leg win in Brussels and had the next round of the UEFA Cup in sight, but Butragueño crushed all their hopes with three goals (the other three were scored by Valdano, two, and Sanchís) and Real Madrid won convincingly 6-1.
Ramón Mendoza initiates a new eraAfter two brief stints as a Director and an election-time defeat to Luis de Carlos, Ramón Mendoza's became President of Real Madrid in 1985. Mendoza's arrival was the dawn of a new era in the history of the Club.
Back-to-back UEFA Cup championsReal Madrid's first two UEFA Cup titles were won back-to-back. The first in 1984 against Hungary's Videoton (3-0 at Sosto Stadium and 0-1 in Chamartín), and the second one year later after defeating FC Köln 5-1 at the Bernabéu and losing 2-0 at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.
Longest League in history won by MadridThe 1986/87 season went down in history as the longest League in Spanish futbol. After 34 matchdays, each team played 10 more games in a three-part playoff: the top six teams would play for the title, which Real Madrid won, the next six would battle it out for a spot in the League Cup with the possibility of participating in the UEFA Cup, and the last six would duke it out to stave off relegation.
Five years of fantasy and dominanceThe Real Madrid of the Quinta del Buitre and the The Five Machos won five consecutive Leagues with extraordinary authority (1985/86 to 1989/90) and equalled the record achieved between 1960/61 and 1964/65. During the fifth League, Madrid set a new record by scoring 107 goals in 38 matches. The years belonged to Butragueño's fantasy and the dominance of Hugo Sánchez, who won the Golden Boot along with CSKA Sofia's Hristo Stoitchkov.
Temporary Di Stéfano-Camacho duoOn 17 November 1990, after sacking John Benjamín Toshack, Ramón Mendoza turned back to the wisdom of Alfredo di Stéfano and the youth of José Antonio Camacho to coach the team; a temporary duo while the President tried to woo Luis Aragonés away from Espanyol to immediately take charge of the Madridista squad. Luis didn't wanted to disassociate himself from the Catalan side, so Mendoza signed Antic.
Real Madrid turns 106 (1991-2008)The Best Club of the 20th Century celebrates its 106th anniversary todayToday, 6 March 2008, Real Madrid celebrate their 105th anniversary. In a meeting held in Rome in 2000, FIFA decided to name the entity the Best Club of the 20th Century or, by all accounts, the best Club in the history of football. Five years after receiving this distinction, the beat goes on and the Whites are looking to take on a new lease on life and relive the good old days, the ones that put Real Madrid in centre stage of world football.
Mendoza advances electionsAlthough he still had a full year on his ticket, then President Ramón Mendoza advanced the Presidential elections to 14 April 1991. Opposite him was writer Alfonso Ussía, whose results were more than honourable in spite of his diminished resources. The electoral success won Mendoza another four years in the Presidential chair.
Tenerife, the “cursed island”Ramón Mendoza dismissed coach Antic in mid-season. At the time, the Serbian coach had led Real Madrid to a seven point lead during the 1991-92 campaign. He was substituted by Dutch manager Leo Beenhakker, who had re-joined the Club as Technical Director just weeks before. With the Dutchman coaching the team, Madrid were robbed of the League title in Tenerife in the last day of the season. It was exactly the same story the following year, this time with Benito Floro at the rudder. After losing two consecutive titles in the last game of the campaign in exactly the same spot, the Canary isle of Tenerife was tagged a “cursed island ” for Madridismo.
Renovations at the Santiago Bernabéu stadiumThe renovations of the Santiago Bernabéu stadium began on 7 February 1992 and ended two years and change later, on 7 May 1994. The expense of the works was in excess of ESP 5,000 million (EUR 30 million), including the ESP 300M (EUR 1.8M) for the insurance that would cover both the construction workers and the attending spectators during the time.
Valdano returns to coach the teamAfter snatching two League titles from Real Madrid and eliminating them from the King's Cup in his capacity as coach of Tenerife, Jorge Valdano signed a coaching agreement with Real Madrid set on putting the Whites back on the road to success and terminate the 4-year Liga title drought. The Argentine did just that in his first season at his former team and all Real Madrid fans got to sing along to the victory chant at the end of the season.
Sanz relieves Mendoza in Club PresidencyAfter ten and a half years in office, Ramón Mendoza handed in his irrevocable resignation on 20 November 1995. He was relieved by Lorenzo Sanz, who held recourse to Club by-law 49 to get elected as heir to Mendoza by the 11 directors who continued in the Board of Directors following the transfer of power.
Capello makes his debut with Real MadridOn 20 May 1996, Lorenzo Sanz presented Fabio Capello as new head coach of Real Madrid. The Italian trainer landed in Madrid borne out by his five successful seasons with AC Milan, with whom he won the 1994 European Cup. Although Capello only stayed with the team during the 1996-97 season, he managed to win the League.
Seventh European CupAfter a less than impressive domestic run, coach Jupp Heynckes led the team to win the very much awaited -last one was in 1966, 32 years earlier- European Cup. The venue: Amsterdam Arena. Date: 20 May 1998. The Merengues conquered their seventh top European trophy with a goal by now Sporting Director Pedja Mijatovic against the Italian side of Juventus, who were the hot favourites that night.
Second Intercontinental CupGuus Hiddink was the manager in charge of guiding Real Madrid to their second Intercontinental Cup after the surprising resignation of Juan Antonio Camacho in July 1998, before the actual season even began. An extraordinary goal by Raúl in Tokyo sealed the more than fair 2-1 end result for the Whites.
Eighth European Cup & First Spanish FinalVicente del Bosque took over John Benjamin Toshack as head coach of Real Madrid in mid-season and spearheaded the Madridistas towards raising their eighth European Cup -second Champions League title. The venue was superb: the newly built Saint-Denis stadium of Paris would host the first ever Spanish final -as well as the first ever final of the European Cup between two teams of the same country- on 24 May 2000. It was a vibrant game which saw Madrid triumph over Valencia with a final 3-0 result. It was the last European Cup of the 20th Century and, as the first one, it belonged to the Whites.
Florentino Pérez wins the electionsOn 16 July 2000, Florentino Pérez was elected new President of Real Madrid after defeating Lorenzo Sanz in the polls. Pérez's successful campaign was based on two pillars: get rid, for once and for all, of the historical Club debt and sign the best players in the world.
Best Club of the 20th Century On 11 December 2000, during the FIFA gala in Rome, Florentino Pérez and Honourary Club President Alfredo di Stéfano received the accolade honouring Real Madrid as the Best Club of the 20th Century.
The Real Madrid Sports City rezonedAfter the mandatory formalities, Real Madrid's Sports City was rezoned after a three-way agreement that was signed in the headquarters of Madrid's Autonomous Community Council on 7 May 2001. The three parties implicated were Florentino Pérez, José María Álvarez del Manzano and Alberto Ruiz Gallardón in representation of Real Madrid, the City Council and the Madrid Autonomous Community, respectively. The agreement accrued income worth ESP 80,000 million - EUR 480 million for the Club.
The King of Spain, Honourary Centenary PresidentIn the prelude to the celebrations of the Real Madrid Centenary, Florentino Pérez and the Board of Directors unanimously agreed to offer His Majesty the King of Spain the Honourary Centenary President distinction. The monarch accepted the honorary presidency with his habitual modesty.
A Centenary riddled with successesThe Club Centennial took place in 2002 and attracted worldwide acclaim. From the sporting perspective, Madrid won their ninth European Cup after defeating Bayer Leverkusen in Glasgow 2-1; the first European Super Cup against Feyenoord with an identical result (2-1); and their third Intercontinental Cup beating Club Olimpia by 2-0 in Tokyo. One could not have wished for a better 100-year anniversary.
Florentino Pérez resigns On 27 February 2006, Florentino Pérez irrevocably resigned his Presidential post. Fernando Martín became the acting President, followed by Luis Gómez Montejano, who in turn called last summer's Presidential elections.
Ramón Calderón elected PresidentThe Real Madrid presidency was disputed by five candidates, Ramón Calderón, Juan Palacios, Juan Miguel Villar Mir, Lorenzo Sanz and Arturo Baldasano. Following the 2 July 2006 vote, Ramón Calderón was elected President after having won the in-person vote.
Capello's comebackOn 5 July 2006, Fabio Capello signed for Madrid for the second time in his life. The Italian manager asked for and got the signings of Cannavaro, Emerson, Diarra, Reyes and Van Nistelrooy. The winter transfer window saw three new players join the Whites: Marcelo, Higuaín and Gago.
Death of PuskasFerenc Puskas Biro died on 17 November 2006 from an illness he had been suffering from for a long time; he was 79 years old.
Honourary Club Member Joseph BlatterFIFA President Joseph Blatter was awarded the Club’s Gold and Diamond Insignia by Honourary President Alfredo di Stéfano, whom Blatter considers to be the all-time greatest football player. Real Madrid also made the FIFA Premier an Honourary Club Member.
ULEB CupThe first of the two titles won by the basketball section in 2007 was the ULEB Cup. Real Madrid were practically invincible throughout the competition and defeated Unics Kazan and Lietuvos Rytas in the semifinals and final, respectively.
League championsThe ‘Together we can, together we stand’ campaign worked wonders and got the fans and the team to stand together and eventually win the Club’s 30th football League title. The Whites won the title after an impressive comeback against Mallorca the last day of the competition (3-1). It was Ramón Calderón’s first football title as President.
ACB ChampionsOne week later, the Basketball team also won its 30th League title by defeating Barcelona in the playoffs at the Palau Blaugrana. Pamesa and Joventut also fell against them on their road to victory. Felipe Reyes earned MVP honours in the final.
March 6 2008Real Madrid turns 106 today. Since its foundation, the Club has been extremely successful and has embodied the greatest of sports values: to always have a fighting spirit and respect your opponent.
HISTORY OF SANTIAGO BERNABÉU
The Santiago Bernabéu stadium was inaugurated on 14 December 1947 with a match between Real Madrid and Portuguese club OS Belenenses. The stadium was considered the best and most modern football venue of the times, and it's first expansion in 1954 also made it the biggest in the world. The history of the stadium developed in unison with an extraordinary team of champions, whose list of honours managed to match the greatness of this superb stage. They are the golden years that fulfilled every supporter's dreams: the best team playing in the best stadium.At this point, it is fair to acknowledge the importance of one person, a symbol of Real Madrid, a visionary who was ahead of his time, a person, whose faith firmly led and commanded this magnificent project, developing it successfully. The man was Santiago Bernabéu, after whom the white coliseum was named. His grandiose vision of a stadium that could hold the ever-growing Real Madrid fan base -a pipe dream in many people's heads- came to fruition thanks to his undeniable effort and leadership. the Santiago Bernabéu stadium has hosted an endless number of first-line sporting and social events, among which the following stand out: the final of the 2nd European cup won by Real Madrid (1957); the final of the Eurocup (1964); the commemorative celebrations of the stadium's 25th anniversary(1972); the commemorative celebrations of Real Madrid's 75th anniversary (1977); the final of the Spain 1982 world cup; pope john Paul II's 100,000+ gathering with the Spanish youth (1982). Additionally, the Santiago Bernabéu has played host to several finals of the Spanish Cup. The Bernabéu has recently been honored by UEFA as the elite stadium on its 60th birthday.
The Bernabéu is now EliteUEFA grants the stadium its highest ranking its official. UEFA has given the Santiago Bernabéu “Elite Stadium” status, an essential condition for hosting European finals such as that of the Champions League. The Club is extremely pleased with the recognition after years of hard work. It’s the perfect present for a modern and functional stadium that will turn 60-years old in one month.
Elite Stadium status (formerly called 5-Star) enables a stadium to host the finals of the UEFA European Football Championship and the UEFA Champions League. They can also host the final of the UEFA Cup. All have seated capacities in excess of 50,000 spectators and meet a number of additional quality criteria. UEFA officials visited the Bernabéu on numerous occasions in recent years and got a first-hand look at the transformation it has undergone.
One major change required by UEFA was moving the Presidential Balcony to the East Stand in order to be in the same area as the press zone and the dressing rooms. Other novelties such as the Multipurpose Building, its parking lot, the new store, panoramic elevators, and the new press room and player reception area were also taken into consideration and were approved by a UEFA commission, who last visited the stadium on 24 October for the Champions League match against Olympiacos. After reviewing all the criteria, UEFA’s Stadia and Security Committee publicly named the Santiago Bernabéu an Elite Stadium, thus joining a list that already includes Allianz Arena, Amsterdam Arena, Stade de France, and Hampden Park.
Now that the Club can host a Champions League final, the Santiago Bernabéu will compete against the New Wembley and the Olympiastadion in Berlin for the final of the 2010 competition. The winner will be announced in March 2008
The Glorious 5’s
The 5 seasons-1955-56, 1956-57, 1957-58, 1958-59, 1959-60 saw Real Madrid win 9 titles; 5 European Cups(Champions League),
2 La Liga and two Copa Latina titles. But the greatest achievement was of winning the 5 European Cups-the first five inaugural cups.
With players such as Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, Francisco Gento, Hector Rial, Raymond Kopa, and José Santamaria in the team, the 1950s Real Madrid side is regarded as one of the best ever.
FACT: Alfredo Di Stefano scored in each of all the 5 finals.
Alfredo di Stéfano was the driving force and symbol of the great Real Madrid CF sides in the early years of the European Champion Clubs' Cup. The Argentina-born striker played and scored in each of Madrid's victories in the first five finals between 1956 and 1960, including the crowning glory against Eintracht Frankfurt when he and another adopted Spaniard, Ferenc Puskás, shared seven goals between them in a 7-3 win.
Real Madrid CF 4-3 Stade de Reims Champagne13 June 1956, Parc des Princes, Paris
We were playing in our first European Cup. Nobody realized it was the start of something. The game brought with it huge responsibility, as we were to discover much later. It was a magnificent showpiece – the public left very happy and us even more so. To be able to win 4-3 against Reims in Paris! It was a great time for the Spanish immigrants [in Paris] and for the people who had very little here in Madrid. There was a sense of calm in the dressing room and there wasn't that much stress or worry. After we won the game that was it. It's different nowadays. Now it seems like if you don't win people kill you. There's so much more responsibility. Although it's just a sport, for the people and specifically the hardcore Madrid fans, this is a tournament filled with honour.
Real Madrid CF 2-0 AC Fiorentina30 May 1957, Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid
It was in the height of summer in Madrid and we played under a very strong sun which really burnt us. Fiorentina were great champions with a fantastic team who had a very strong defensive system, like most of the Italian teams. We stayed true but we had a really hard time trying to break down that defence. Although I received the awards [European Footballer of the Year in 1957 and 1959], I shared them with all of my team-mates. I would never say that awards are something I wished for. It's a game of football and football is eleven against eleven. It's a team effort.
Real Madrid CF 3-2 AC Milan (aet)29 May 1958, Heysel Stadium, Brussels
The toughest final was the third, when we stole it from Milan. They were our big rivals because of the players they had like Maldini, Liedholm, Schiaffino ... phenomenal players, Italian and foreign players, in their team. We were never in front until we actually won it, which didn't happen until extra time, when Gento got the goal that clinched the title. It was really hard going, the toughest test of all, but there was never a doubt we would lose. They had a good team and we knew they were good on the counter-attack as well. When you look at the European Cup finals there are always two big teams involved who are powerful and strong.
Real Madrid CF 2-0 Stade de Reims Champagne3 June 1959, Necker Stadion, Stuttgart
I was a forward and one of the obligations of a forward is to score goals. For me my best goal was the one I scored in Stuttgart, in the fourth final in Germany. The one we won 2-0. The second goal was mine. It was probably the most crucial goal. Reims were a big name; they had a great team and some great players. That French team had a great decade. This time we had a problem because Kopa got injured and in those days you couldn't make substitutions. That made it a complicated and difficult game, but we won 2-0 and in the end we didn't have to work too hard.
Real Madrid CF 7-3 Eintracht Frankfurt18 May, Hampden Park, Glasgow
This one was easier. It was more complicated but at the same time it was easier. They made it 1-0 and soon after that they had another attack that our keeper saved well. That was the signal for us to equalize and once we took the lead we continued to push on because we had a very attacking team. That final caused a big sensation because of the result. Ten goals in a final, what an incredible spectacle. But I still have to say the hardest final for us and by far the best was the Brussels final against Milan. It was unbelievable. We weren't a team full of difficult people, there were no individuals then. Individuals only reinforce the group. Puskás helped to reinforce the team. It was a very hard-working team, very happy. We came up against teams that didn't know what to expect. We would run all day and wouldn't stop for anyone.
The Champions League Titles-
YEAR
TITLE WON AGAINST
1956
Stade de Reims Champagne
1957
Fiorentina
1958
AC Milan
1959
Stade de Reims Champagne
1960
Eintracht Frankfurt
1966
FK Partizan
1998
FC Juventus
2000
Valencia
2002
FC Bayern Munich
Historical leaderReal Madrid have taken more points in the First Division than any other sideWith a spectacular end to the year Bernd Schuster's men keep proving they truly deserve to be part of the Best Club of the 20th Century. No one has taken as many points, scored as many goals or won as many titles as Real Madrid.
This has been a good year for the Club. After winning their 30th League title in June, Real Madrid are currently leaders and Winter Champions in the League.
Ever since the Club was founded in 1902, the football team has been earning spectacular and historical figures, many of which were the reason FIFA decided to name Real Madrid the Best Club of the 20th Century a few years ago.
Real Madrid have taken more points in the Spanish First Division than any other side: 3,525 in official games, 131 more than Barcelona, who are second in the ranking. The Whites took their largest number of points in the 1996/97 campaign (92), losing only 4 games and winning their 27th League title. It seems they may even break this record this year, having already taken 41 points, seven more than Barcelona.
Real Madrid share the distinction of playing 2,398 First Division matches with Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona in 78 seasons, but the Whites have won a larger number of fixtures: 1.375, drawing 508 and losing only 515.
The Whites are the historical top scorers in the Spanish League with 4,950 goals -they are followed by Barcelona in the ranking with 4,891 strikes-. The Club's top scorer is its current Honorary President Alfredo Di Stéfano with 216 goals, a record Raúl González seems determined to break, having scored 195 strikes in 14 years.These impressive figures have naturally earned Real Madrid an amazing track record: 30 League titles -being runners-up 17 times-, 17 King's Cups and 7 Spanish Super Cups. They have also won 9 European Cups, 3 Intercontinental Cups and 2 UEFA Cups.
But this surely won't end here. After Christmas, Bernd Schuster's men will do their best to have a great start to the new year and eventually go on to in more accolades for the Club.
Birds of Prey
When Real Madrid stars like Raul and Robinho head to the locker room, a team of birds of prey begin their shift, protecting the Spanish club's iconic stadium from pigeons -- and their harmful droppings.
About a dozen eagles, falcons and owls with names like Atenea, Aramis and Byron stand guard above the grounds of the 60-year-old Santiago Bernabéu stadium which hosted the 1982 World Cup final that was won by Italy.
"The pigeons are big problem, they enter the grounds in big numbers," said Guillermo Santalla, 34, who has trained the birds of prey to frighten the pigeons away without ever touching or harming them.
"We have to prevent them from living in the stadium because they dirty everything, the dirt is is tremendous and it harms the structure of the stadium," he told AFP.
In addition to leaving behind messy droppings, pigeons devour the pitch, especially when it has been recently seeded, and build their nests in the stands of the stadium, which can hold up to 80,000 people.
To keep the birds at bay the eagles and falcons are trained to fly above the stands during the day while at night owls take over to discourage them from sleeping in the stadium, located in the heart of Madrid's business district.
Santalla, who had a childhood passion for the art of falconry which was used in medieval times by the nobility in hunting, spends an average of six hours a day working with the birds at the venue.
He was trained by the widow of Felix Rodriguez de la Fuente, a Spanish expert in falconry who was at one point employed by the Saudi Arabian king and who is credited with popularizing the activity in Spain in the 1960s.
At a farm some 30 kilometers (20 miles) outside of Madrid, Santalla is already training a new generation of falcons, including two named Figo and Zidane after the former star Real Madrid players Luis Figo and Zinedine Zidane.
"This contributes to the recovery of certain endangered species because all of our birds of prey are born in captivity," he said.
Authorities in other European cities are also taking steps to protect their landmarks from pigeons, which are estimated to produce an average of 11.3 kilograms (25 pounds) of waste each per year.
Feeding pigeons was banned in London's Trafalgar Square while officials in Italy are looking into the possibility of banning the sale of birdseed in Venice's St.Mark's Square.
Several kilometers away from the Bernabéu stadium, Madrid's international airport employs a team of falcons to scare off pigeons and other birds that can be dangerous for airplanes in the critical moments of take-off and landing.
"Imagine the risk, what would happen if a flock of pigeons got in the way of a plane and it could not take off or slow down because of its speed," said Jesus Rero who has spent 37 of his 51 years working at the airport.
Airport management body Aena employs four teams of falcons at Barajas which permanently stand guard on the sidelines of its four runways that handle some 1,400 daily take off and landings.
The tactic is used at all Spanish airports to deal with the threat of collisions between birds and aircraft.
"It is the best method to frighten off pigeons which could strike the planes," said Rero who said the birds get used to other tactics like alarms or ultrasounds.
"Falcons always frighten them off because they are their natural enemy and they scare them," he said.
EIGHT GOALS FOR PEACE
The score was what mattered the least. Being inside the Ramat Gann Stadium in Tel Aviv is what really counted. And Real Madrid were there when needed most, and more importantly, they put on a show that a totally devoted fan base deserved. The President of Real Madrid, Ramón Calderón and the President-elect of Israel, Simon Peres opened the Peace Match with the honorary kick-off, where the only color present was white; a symbol of harmony, unity and, of course, Madridismo.
For the first time ever, Israel hosted a football match between a combined Palestinian-Israeli squad and a team from Europe. And all of it thanks to the collaboration between Real Madrid and the Peres Center for Peace. Although the final score was what mattered the least, the Whites proved why they finished the season as champions of the Spanish League.
Although the score had little priority, it was Capello's men who took centre stage. Led by Raúl, the player most applauded by the fans, Real Madrid led the offensive charge throughout the match. The captain had the first clear look on goal, but his strike off a pass from Guti sailed over the crossbar. Six minutes later, Nieto surprised Deportivo la Coruña keeper Dudu Aouate.
Real Madrid keeper, Iker Casillas made his first intervention by clearing a shot that came dangerously close to the back of his net. The Whites continued having scoring opportunities, but they didn't have any success until the 29th minute, when Guti opened the scoreboard with a shot from outside the box. Two minutes later, Raúl unsuccessfully had a go off a Guti cross.
The second goal of the night came in the 36th minute of the first half. Another Guti struck from outside the box to put the visitors up 0-2. The first 45 minutes came to a close with the third of the night. Guti clinched his hat-trick by knocking home a Cicinho pass, and the Whites headed to the dressing room with the fans in a frenzy.
The second half opened with several player substitutions. The Palestinian-Israeli squad tried to create scoring opportunities in front of Casillas' net, but the keeper held the hosts at bay. Raúl was responsible for the fourth of the night, minutes before being replaced by Negredo to a standing ovation from the Ramat Gann supporters. The Castilla player then scored the Whites' fifth goal by beating the keeper to his rebounded ball. Guti punched in the sixth -his fourth of the night-. The last two strikes were works by Negredo, the youth team forward, who didn't miss out on his chance to shine.
Despite the pent-up fatigue, the Madridistas played their hearts out and offered a great show to those in attendance. They showed that solving problems is best tackled by a united front, and they proved to Israel, who welcomed them with such warmth, that hope and a peaceful future are possible. It was an emotionally moving match characterized by football, harmony, and, more importantly, the affection and respect for a color that represents two vital elements in the lives of the spectators on hand: Peace and Real Madrid.
The life of Don Alfredo Di Stefano-
CHAPTER I: Origins in Argentina and Colombia (1926-1953): The Blond ArrowAlfredo di Stéfano was born in the Barracas district of Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 4 July 1926. The district is at the port of the city, where English sailors introduced football to the country. His grandfather, Miguel, was the first Di Stéfano to make it to Argentina from Capri, and his father, Don Alfredo, married Eulalia Laulhé Gilmont, of French/Irish descent. They had three children: Alfredo, Tulio (who played as left forward) and Norma (who became a basketball player).
HIS FIRST TEAMStopita (nickname given to him by his grandfather after the yellow mops that were used on boats) grew up playing football in the wastelands -the "street academy"- with the kids of his neighbourhood. They used rubber balls that cost two cents. His first organized team was Unidos y Venceremos before he moved to the Flores neighbourhood, where he played for Iman. His first football nickname was Minellita, after River Plate midfielder Minella, who was also blond.
FROM THE WASTELAND TO... RIVER PLATEThe Di Stéfano family moved to Los Cardales, in the outskirts of Buenos Aires, in 1940. His father worked in the field planting cereals and Alfredo left his studies to get a job to help the family out. That would have been his future if he hadn't heeded the call of football.
His passion for the sport was irrepressible. On Sundays, he played football with his brother Tulio in a local league and saw live games of River Plate -of whom he'd been a Club Member since the age of seven- with his father in the afternoon. Alfredo's style amazed everyone who saw him play and his great talent didn't go unnoticed; he had an audition with River Plate in 1944 and was signed by the club.
At 18 he made his debut in the Fourth Division, gradually making it to the First, in which he made his debut in 1945 against Huracan, where he would play on loan the following season -its coaches were the first to realize he was an exceptional player.
Di Stéfano returned to River Plate in 1947 and won the League title and the top-scorer trophy. He made his debut with Argentina that year, winning the South American Guayaquil Championship in Ecuador, in which he scored six goals. He was soon nicknamed the Blond Arrow due to his incredible speed.
That River Plate side came to be known as The Machine -they used to be called The Knights of Anguish-, comprising players like Soriano, Muñoz, Moreno, Labruna, Pedernera and Loustau. Alfredo learned from these men how to play in every position. He even played as a keeper for fifteen minutes once, replacing the injured Carrizo in a derby against Boca Juniors. Di Stéfano played a total of 66 matches and tallied 49 goals in the Argentinean championship.
SUCCESS AT THE 'BLUE BALLET'A general strike left Argentinean football on stand-by, forcing Di Stéfano to sign for Millonarios Bogota, the best side in Colombia, where he played alongside great footballers like Rossi, Báez and Pedernera.
The great success of the 'Blue Ballet' -as Millonarios were popularly known then- earned worldwide renown. Alfredo played 294 games with Bogota, netting 267 strikes. He played his first match in Spain in 1952 at Chamartín Stadium in the tournament that celebrated Real Madrid's 50th Anniversary. Madridismo fell in love with his game and in very little time Di Stéfano became a Real Madrid player.
Chapter one relived Alfredo Di Stéfano's early years as a footballer with River Plate and Millonarios. In the next chapter we look back on the legend's career with Real Madrid. His arrival revolutionized a club that hadn't won a title in 21 years. Di Stéfano spearheaded an unbeatable team that won five straight European Cups; a squad with extraordinary individual talent, but that "always played as a team."CHAPTER II: Real Madrid (1953-1964): A legend is born Madridismo received an early Christmas present in 1953 when Real Madrid beat out Barcelona for the services of the best football player of the day. Alfredo Di Stéfano debuted on 23 September 1953 against Nancy. He arrived at Atocha train station at 10 am, underwent the required physical, dropped his family of at the hotel, and was at the stadium by 2 pm. He hadn't trained in two months but managed scored a goal, and so the legend was born. It was only the first of 510 matches he played for Real Madrid, during which he scored 418 times.
INCOMPARABLE TRACK RECORDDi Stéfano's honours include eight Ligas, five European Cups, one Spanish Cup, one Intercontinental Cup, two Latin Cups, one Pequeña Copa del Mundo, three Carranza Trophies, and one Benito Trophy Villamarín among many others. He was also a five-time Pichichi winner (1953/54, 1955/56, 1956/57, 1957/58, and 1958/59).
That Real Madrid team has gone down in history as one of the best of all time. Playing in their new Santiago Bernabéu Stadium were the likes of Gento, Rial, Kopa, Puskas, Santamaría, Juanito Alonso, Zárraga... And Di Stéfano, considered to be the natural leader despite always shaking off the individual praise and putting the team first. He was a complete footballer, both on and off the pitch. France Football awarded him the Ballon d'Or in 1957 and 1959.
BUMPS IN THE ROADDi Stéfano's extremely successful career did have a few bumps in the road. He will never forget when he was kidnapped by Venezuelan guerilla group F.A.L.N. in Caracas in 1963. He has also always been upset by the fact that he never participated in a World Cup with the Spanish national team despite playing in 31 internationals.
He captained the "Rest of the World" squad against England in the Centenary of the Football Association in 1963. His last official match with Real Madrid took place on 27 May 1964 against Inter Milan in the Final of the IX European Cup.
ONE YEAR WITH ESPANYOL... AND ADIOSFollowing his brilliant stint with Real Madrid, Di Stéfano signed for Espanyol, who played his former team in Barcelona in the first match of the season. The game was at 12 pm and televised across the country. "Puskas nutmeged me and I told him, "Of course you had to do it to me," he recalls. Both laughed. They were great friends.
After one season with Espanyol, Di Stéfano said his final 'adios' to football in a tribute match between Real Madrid and Celtic Glasgow in 1967. He handed over his legendary number '9' shirt to youth teamer Grosso amid a clamour of fans who had risen to their feet to bid farewell to the best footballer to ever set foot on the turf of the most emblematic stadium in Europe.
One cycle had come to a close, but another was just about to begin: his career as a football coach.
Chapter two revisited Alfredo Di Stéfano's career as a footballer in Argentina, Colombia, and Real Madrid, but let's have a look at his life as a coach. Everything that made him the best footballer of all time he then instructed to players on teams like Real Madrid, Elche, Rayo, Castellón, Valencia, and River Plate, where he left his trademark competitive spirit, passion for the job, and winning attitude.
“I became a coach because football was all that I knew. Coaching is the hardest thing in the world. You are nothing without players. Achievements aren't yours; they belong to others. I supported the youth system on every team I coached. They are the seedlings, and we're the ones responsible for making the plant grow.”Alfredo di Stéfano
CHAPTER III: Madridista coach (1982-1984/1990-91): The ExperienceOne of Alfredo Di Stéfano's greatest qualities was his ability to assimilate and then pass on all the advice and words of wisdom he ever received from others, independent of whether they were football-related or not. His first coaches in Argentina (Peucelle and Cesarini) taught him the triumph of victory and warned him of the agony of defeat.
Once with Real Madrid he learned that rules and a good image were far more important than winning. He later wrote a code of honour that has been passed on from one generation to the next. A large part of this philosophy of sacrifice, hard work, and winning attitude carried over to both the sporting and human element of life, and during his coaching years Di Stéfano taught it to his players, hundreds of whom still remember his lessons by heart.
REAL MADRIDIn March 1982, 15 years after his Bernabéu farewell, Di Stéfano signed on as coach of a Real Madrid squad presided by Luis de Carlos. Following the World Cup, on 20 July 1982, he and his assistants Juan Santisteban and Jesús Paredes were presented. “I will bring morale, strength, and skill to this team,” said Di Stéfano to the fans. What followed was a brilliant season with several bittersweet endings; he led Real Madrid to five finals and they finished as runners-up in all of them. La Liga was decided in the final match and won by Athletic. The European Cups Winner's Cup went to Aberdeen, the Copa del Rey and League Cup to Barcelona, and the Super Cup to Real Sociedad.
The next year Di Stéfano looked to the youth system for help. He always had faith in the youngsters and counted on the likes of Agustín, Fraile, Chendo, San José, Martín, Gallego, Bernardo, Isidro, Cholo... His love affair with Madrid made him think more about the future than the urgent present day necessities, and just like that he opened the doors to young prospects who would later be known as the Quinta del Buitre: Sanchis, Martín Vázquez, Pardeza and Butragueño (Míchel joined the following season). It was the birth of a team that would take Europe by storm in the latter half of the decade.
The demands of football coupled with the lack of titles (Athletic won La Liga by goal-average) provoked Di Stéfano's departure, and he was replaced by Amancio Amaro, the coach of Real Madrid Castilla who had just won Segunda Division. “This club's doors will always be open,” reminded Luis De Carlos during Di Stéfano's farewell.
AND BACKAnd they did just that six years later on 21 November 1990, when Di Stéfano returned as interim coach alongside Grosso and Camacho. Until then he had acted as presidential advisor, but the club needed someone to fill in for Toshack, who had recently been dismissed.
Di Stéfano transformed the team in mere months, and his offensive, eye-catching football reaped its reward with the Spanish Super Cup after defeating Barcelona 0-1 in the Camp Nou (Aragón beat Zubizarreta with an unforgettable strike from the midfield). Months later, Di Stéfano would make way for Radomir Antic.
OTHER TEAMS, OTHER LESSONSDi Stéfano also coached Elche (1967), Boca Juniors (1968), Rayo Vallecano (1975), Castellón (1976), River Plate (1981), and Valencia (three different times), but he left his trademark competitive spirit,
Alfredo di Stéfano"I dedicate this tribute to those who helped me along the way"The highpoint of the day came when the honoree unveiled his new statue and gave a small speech to the 600 guests that payed him tribute today."Thank you very much. This is too much. You are making me tremble with emotion. I don't deserve so much praise. I dedicate everything you've said about me to my past and present teammates and colleagues. My gratitude to the sculptor. I thank you all for being here with me today. I don't deserve all this, but I accept it, as people normally do. I am especially grateful to my Spanish and foreign colleagues, and to the Presidents and players who have made a great effort to be here today."
"I've always been a team worker, which I think is more important than focusing on individual flare. I dedicate this tribute to those who helped me along the way, people I greatly admire. I am very happy and wish to thank the Board for deciding to organize all this. I am grateful to the Presidents of UEFA and FIFA for honoring me with their presence here today. Football has been my entire life and it has given me some very good moments, although some were also bad. I've built my life around football, and my friends and family have shared it with me. I am grateful to them for all the sacrifices and obligations my life imposed on them."
"Football is a team sport, but a player also needs to compromise with the club, his teammates and the fans, always striving to be successful and to excel at the sport. A player must be disciplined and adhere to fair play, something I've always been proud of upholding. I encourage Real Madrid to carry on trying to recover its traditional values and I urge the kids in the youth system to embrace them. My most sincere gratitude to you all for this tribute."
"I am deeply grateful to Pedro Montes for this statue. Look at its wide-open arms... I hope you all see in them my embrace and gratitude to you all."
The life of Di Stéfano IVThe previous three chapters focused on Alfredo Di Stéfano's years as a player and coach. Now, we look at his office as Honorary President.
CHAPTER IV: Honorary President (2000-Present)
"To be the Honorary President of this Club is the greatest of prides for a Madridista. It is a great responsibility. I've been very lucky with my family: with Sara, who was always the pillar of the family, with my six children, with my grandchildren... Real Madrid is also my family. I feel loved and appreciated here. Just like at home."
Alfredo di StéfanoAlfredo never truly left Real Madrid; this is his home. He kept his ties with the Club through the Veterans Association, which he helped create and currently presides. He works at its office every day, coordinating its extraordinary achievements. Di Stéfano was named Presidential Advisor in 1989, the same year that saw him receive UEFA's Super Golden Ball, acknowledging him as the best player of the previous three decades. Nine years later, FIFA inducted him into their Hall of Fame as one of the Ten Most Legendary Players in History.
HONOURARY PRESIDENT
Alfredo Di Stéfano was named Honorary President of Real Madrid in July 2000. This office was ratified by the Club Members General Assembly in November. This was a just gesture towards the man who, with President Bernabéu, was the most instrumental figure in the construction of this Club, which was incidentally named Best Club of the 20th Century that same year by FIFA. Alfredo di Stéfano became the Real Madrid's ambassador all over the world and was a first-hand witness of the changes the entity went through at the start of the new millennium.
Alfredo participated in many of the Foundation's initiatives, represented the Club in the most important national and international events that took place, during many of which his incredible track record was continuously praised. The former player and coach was particularly moved by the 2002 centenary celebrations of Real Madrid because his first contact with the Club had taken place during its 50 Anniversary Celebration.
STATUE & STADIUM
Alfredo di Stéfano has become a regular at the presentations of the new players that join the Club, men such as Beckham, Zidane, Robinho, Van Nistelrooy, Robben... Every newcomer receives his first shirt from his hands and listen to his great advice. Di Stéfano has a very special friendship with President Ramón Calderón and with team captains Raúl, Guti, Casillas and Salgado, who share with him the worries the squad may have at given times.
Di Stéfano has always been fascinated by the modernization the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and Valdebebas have undergone. The latter is already considered to be the largest sports facilities ever built by a football club. Alfredo laid the stepping-stone of the new Real Madrid City and attended its opening a few years later.
He was probably even more excited in the opening of the stadium that bears his name at Valdebebas and which is currently the home ground of Real Madrid Castilla.
Di Stéfano is as passionate as he's ever been about Real Madrid's current affairs. The door at his office is always open for anyone to pop in. His voice is still the guiding light for those of us who wish Real Madrid to be the Best Club of the 21st Century.
Monumental statueAlfredo Di Stéfano unveiled his magnificent statue at ValdebebasAll Madridismo is proud of Alfredo di Stéfano. The Club's Honorary President will never forget the worldwide tribute Real Madrid organized for him today, during which he unveiled a statue that now presides over the stadium that bears his name at Valdebebas.
Alfredo di Stéfano unveiled a statue that depicts his celebration of a goal in the European Cup against Belgian side Vassas. The strike will forever be remembered by Real Madrid fans.
A GRANDIOSE EVENTOne of the most emotive moments of today's tribute took place with a backdrop of a famous photo of Di Stéfano crouching next to the five European Cups he won when he was a player. The marquee where all the guests gathered became an improvised projection room for a very entertaining video on Don Alfredo, in which former teammates like Santamaría, rivals such as Abelardo and Bobby Charlton, and past and present figures of Real Madrid like Butragueño, Valdano and Raúl, praised the legendary player. Raúl, who has a close relationship with the Honorary President, pointed out that Di Stéfano is the perfect embodiment of the Club's values.
The video was followed by speeches made by Ramón Calderón, Joseph Blatter -whose delivery was highly emotional-, Spanish Sports Secretary Jaime Lissavetzsky, and Madrid Mayor Alberto Ruiz Gallardón. The 'Blond Arrow' gave each a warm hug when they were done, amongst an effusive applause by all attending the act.UNVEILING OF THE STATUEThe Club's hymn was the prelude to Calderón's and Don Alfredo's highly anticipated unveiling of the statue. The artist was inspired by the player's celebration of a goal against Vassas in the European Cup, which has appeared in the sports press and media countless times. "On October 1, the honoree and the President came to see the finished statue," he said, "I was very nervous, but I was very satisfied with my work when I saw both of them liked it."
A deeply moved Di Stéfano took the stand to give a speech of thanks to everyone, in which his personal and sporting feelings came to the surface.
PHOTOS BY THE STATUEArtist Pedro Montes should be proud of his work. He was congratulated by all the important sports personalities attending the act, who wanted to have their picture taken next to his work.
Joseph Blatter"Di Stéfano's name is written in gold in the annals of football history"FIFA President Joseph Blatter has always expressed his admiration for Alfredo di Stéfano, considering him to be the best all-time football player. Blatter didn't want to miss such an important day for his idol and gave a small speech."This is a great honour for the President of FIFA, today escorted by two of his Vice-presidents, Ángel María Villar and Michel Platini, President's of the Spanish FA and UEFA, respectively. I would also like to mention Ramón Calderón because a great honour of this Club was bestowed upon me recently. Real Madrid is a FIFA founding member, institution which named it the Best Club of the 20th Century."
"I must also add that this is a special and personal day for me. Don Alfredo and I share the way we feel about the sport and regard how football should be played in the same way. You became my idol, Don Alfredo, when I was 14 years old and you presented your new football philosophy. You have continued being my idol the 33 years I have been working at FIFA. Like you, my father, who has given me so much in life, also was born on 4 July. You and I have that in common."
"Don Alfredo, today I am the spokesman of the great football family that wishes to congratulate you and pay tribute to you once more. I can't add anything else because you are a living legend, more than just a memory, and your name is written in gold in the annals of football history and those of FIFA. You were awarded the Order of Merit for Sports in 1994 by said institution, acknowledging you as a great and important personality."
"Your message throughout your career has been that of loyalty to a club, something very important today, and that of fair play. With your permission, FIFA will use that message of yours in its next congress. I will present the topic of fair play with you in mind; someone I like to consider as a football pitch philosopher."
"Congratulations on behalf of FIFA, football players and the entire football family. We are proud of being here today."
UEFA Presidential AwardMichel Platini: "It is impossible to picture the history of football without your presence"Hundreds of important and legendary personalities of the world of football gathered at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium at 12:30 to pay homage to Alfredo di Stéfano. The legendary player received the UEFA Presidential Award from UEFA President Michel Platini.
RAMÓN CALDERÓN, President of Real Madrid
"This is a great, important and beautiful day for Real Madrid and all of us who represent and love the Club. We pay double tribute to a living legend and myth of football, one of the people to have most helped Real Madrid to be acknowledged throughout the world and be named the Best Club of the 20th Century. I would like to welcome all of you to this tribute. Don Alfredo will first receive a special award from UEFA's President, Michel Platini, whom I would like to thank for having the courtesy of allowing this act to be one of the activities that comprise this tribute."
"Hundreds of personalities from the world of football have gathered here today. They are the real stars of this event. I am very satisfied with being their host and welcoming them on behalf of Real Madrid. Thank you for being here with us today in such an emotional act."
A video projection of Alfredo di Stéfano's life at Real Madrid followed Calderón's speech. Michel Platini took the stand when it finished.
MICHEL PLATINI, UEFA President
"You've been a great amongst the greats. It is impossible to picture the history of football without your extraordinary presence. The Real Madrid side of your days made a dent in that history forever. There is a very special spot for you amongst the great names of the history of this sport. You also happened to be the first foreign coach who wanted me on his team..."
"You set the example that contributed to the success European football had in the years following your retirement. I have black and white memories of the Blond Arrow. You embodied world football for two decades, during which you were a true gentleman of the sport. You invented modern-day football through a TV screen. Thank you. Only the best of the best will receive the UEFA Presidential Award. Thank you for everything you've done for our wonderful sport."
As he listened to the words of one of the best French players in history, the eyes of Don Alfredo showed he was deeply moved. Both men have always admired each other, so it was very fitting for the Honorary President to receive UEFA's Presidential Award from Platini himself, who was also very moved during the act.
ALFREDO DI STÉFANO
"In football terms, I must say this generous tribute will be a very tough match in which I will have to play both halves. I hope the toughest injuries of all, feelings, permit me to be up for the challenge. I have to admit I've been warming up for this for two weeks now, with the arrival of friends and family, and I've received many letters and given several interviews too. My work so far has been focused on strengthening my thank you muscles in order to be able to express the tremendous gratitude I feel."
"The first half of the match couldn't have been better planned. This UEFA award is very special for me because I've received it from Michel Platini, who has been able to be equally successful behind a desk as he was on the pitch. I am deeply moved, and I laugh to avoid crying with joy. I want to thank you all for allowing me to avoid flying to some other place for this; I am not very keen on it. I thank you for letting me play this game at home. I want to save my strength because this will be a very long match day, but I remain forever grateful to you all."
This moving speech had laughter and tears, showing the true character of Alfredo di Stéfano. It concluded the first half of what the legendary player now calls his "most important match."
Illustrious receptionImportant football personalities met with Di Stéfano prior to the worldwide tributeAlfredo do Stéfano's friends and admirers wished to be with him before the worldwide tribute kick started. The Club's Honorary President met with FIFA President Joseph Blatter, UEFA Premier Michel Platini, Spanish Sports Secretary Jaime Lissavetzky, Spanish FA President Ángel María Villar, Madrid Mayor Alberto Ruíz Gallardón, and tenor Plácido Domingo in the stadium's Board Room. Ramón Calderón, Pedja Mijatovic and several Board Members were also there.Alfredo di Stéfano met with some of his guests at 10:30 am, one and a half hours before the worldwide tribute was set to begin. The small gathering took place in the Santiago Bernabéu's Board Room. Joseph Blatter, Michel Platini, Jaime Lissavetzky, Ángel María Villar, Alberto Ruíz Gallardón, and Plácido Domingo wished to spend the moments prior to the main event with Don Alfredo.
Breakfast was served while everyone chatted and praised the former player. "We are at the home of the best Club in the world," said Joseph Blatter -a fervent Madridista and great fan of Don Alfredo- upon arriving. Many of those in the room concurred by the FIFA President's observation, particularly Plácido Domingo, who sang Real Madrid's centenary hymn in 2002.
Everyone talked to Di Stéfano and shared their memories of his splendid career with him. The Honorary President in turn told them them several enjoyable anecdotes of his years as a player. Following breakfast, his guests were able to tour around the Bernabéu's new building and admire some of the team's trophies, including several European Cups.
Closing speech"We thank you for your permanent legacy and the example you set every day"In his closing speech, President Ramón Calderón thanked Alfredo di Stéfano in the name of all Madridismo for everything he has done for the Club throughout his life.
"My Board and I have wanted to express our admiration, respect and affection four our veterans since the day we took office. This affection responds to one of the pillars of this Board's office, that of recovering those values that have been mentioned repeatedly today. There is no one like our Honorary President to embody and instill them in the younger generations."
"These values have helped this Club be recognized as the Best Club of the 20th Century. Real Madrid has always had talented, ingenious and inspired players, but that is not enough. Those qualities have to go hand in hand with the values of hard work, the need and desire to improve, order, devotion, sacrifice and everything else necessary for a professional player to reach success. We wanted to make our feelings towards Alfredo obvious, but this was hard being that he is already our Honorary President and he also has a stadium named after him."
"When Pedro Montes showed us the sketches for the sculpture I thought it would be the best way in which to pay eternal tribute to Alfredo Di Stéfano. Bronze and stone last forever and will endure with our eternal gratitude. We are lucky to see and listen to Alfredo often because you can always learn something from him, not just about football, but on a person level as well. These encounters are sometimes blessed with the magic of Alfredo's memory and the anecdotes and experiences he suddenly shares with us."
"Alfredo was very nervous, but also very happy these last few weeks. He gradually got more interested in the whole build-up to today and learning about which people had confirmed their attendance. Alfredo, you've been our strongest driving force to reach this day."
"This statue is the depiction of a great sportsman, of whom we Madridistas consider to be the best all-time football player. But this act also honours a great and humble person. Di Stéfano is a great sportsman both physically and mentally. I would like to highlight your motto, Alfredo: united we will win. It highlights two very important elements in your life: teamwork and a permanent drive for victory."
"Your track record is spectacular and unparalleled. I believe the greatest accolade you've ever had is the acknowledgement and recognition of the entire world. A few days ago, I told our veterans that I don't like to talk about them as former players. I consider them to be players that happen to be inactive at the moment; a Real Madrid player never stops being one until the day he dies. Alfredo is the most important footballer in history. Those of us who admire and love you wish to thank you for your permanent legacy and the example you set every day."
Titles to its name-
1. Intercontinental Cup-3.
2. UEFA Champions League-9.
3. UEFA Cup-2.
4. UEFA Super Cup.
5. Spanish La Liga-30.
6. Copa Del Rey-17.
7. Regional Championship-18.
8. Supercopa de España-8.
9. Copa Latina-2.
10. Copa De La Liga.
11. Supercopa De La Liga.
12. Santiago Bernabéu Trophy-6.
Intercontinental cup-1960, 1998, 2002.
UEFA champions league finals- 12
UEFA Champions League titles-
Ø Consecutive 5 titles-1955-56, 1956-57, 1957-58, 1958-59, 1959-60.
Ø Single titles-1965-66, 1997-98, 1999-00, 2001-02.
UEFA cup titles-1984-85, 1985-86.
Spanish La Liga Titles-30.
Ø Consecutive titles-1931-32, 1932-33.
Ø Consecutive titles-1953-54, 1954-55.
Ø Consecutive titles-1956-57, 1957-58.
Ø Consecutive 5 titles-1960-61, 1961-62, 1962-63, 1963-64, 1964-65.
Ø Hatrick titles-1966-67, 1967-68, 1968-69.
Ø Single title-1971-72.
Ø Consecutive titles-1974-75, 1975-76.
Ø Hatrick titles-1977-78, 1978-79, 1979-80.
Ø Consecutive 5 titles-1985-86, 1986-87, 1987-88, 1988-89, 1989-90.
Ø Single title-1994-95.
Ø Single title-1996-97.
Ø Consecutive titles-2000-01, 2002-03.
Ø Single title-2006-07.
Copa Del Rey: 1904/05; 1905/06; 1906/07; 1907/08; 1916/17; 1933/34; 1935/36; 1945/46; 1946/47; 1961/62; 1969/70; 1973/74; 1974/75; 1979/80; 1981/82; 1988/89; 1992/93. Copa de La Liga: 1984/85. Supercopa de España: 1947 1988 1989 1990 1993 1997 2001 2003 Copa Latina: 1955 1957 Regional Championship: 1903/04; 1904/05; 1905/06; 1906/07; 1907/08; 1912/13; 1915/16; 1916/17; 1917/18; 1919/20; 1921/22; 1922/23; 1923/24; 1925/26; 1926/27; 1928/29; 1929/30; 1930/31.
THE CLUB PRESIDENTS OF REAL MADRID
Ramón Calderón
· DATE OF BIRTH: 26 May 1951
· INCORPORATION: 2006
Luís Gómez-Montejano Arroyo
· BEGINS: 2006
· ENDS: 2006
· DURATION: 3 months
Fernando Martín Álvarez
· BEGINS: 2006
· ENDS: 2006
· DURATION: 3 months
Florentino Pérez
· BEGINS: 2000
· ENDS: 2006
· DURATION: 6 years
Lorenzo Sanz
· BEGINS: 1995
· ENDS: 2000
· DURATION: 5 years
Ramón Mendoza
· BEGINS: 1985
· ENDS: 1995
· DURATION: 10 years
Luis de Carlos
· BEGINS: 1978
· ENDS: 1985
· DURATION: 7 years
Santiago Bernabéu
· BEGINS: 1943
· ENDS: 1978
· DURATION: 35 years
Antonio Santos Peralba
· BEGINS: 1940
· ENDS: 1943
· DURATION: 3 years
Adolfo Meléndez
· BEGINS: 1939
· ENDS: 1940
· DURATION: 1 years
Rafael Sánchez Guerra
· BEGINS: 1935
· ENDS: 1939
· DURATION: 4 years
Luis Usera Bugallal
· BEGINS: 1929
· ENDS: 1935
· DURATION: 6 years
Luis de Urquijo
· BEGINS: 1926
· ENDS: 1929
· DURATION: 3 years
Pedro Parages
· BEGINS: 1916
· ENDS: 1925
· DURATION: 10 years
Adolfo Meléndez
· BEGINS: 1908
· ENDS: 1916
· DURATION: 8 years
Carlos Padrós
· BEGINS: 1904
· ENDS: 1908
· DURATION: 4 years
Juan Padrós
· BEGINS: 1902
· ENDS: 1904
· DURATION: 2 years
Julián Palacios
· BEGINS: 1900
· ENDS: 1902
· DURATION: 2 years
Organizational structure
President
Ramón Calderón
Ramón Calderón is invested President of Real Madrid. The candidacy he leads was the winner of the elections held on Sunday, 2 July 2006. His Board of directors was also presented during the investiture act, which was hosted by the outgoing President, Luis Gómez Montejano, and by the Honorary President, Alfredo Di Stéfano.
Vice-presidents
José Ignacio Rivero
Vicente Boluda
Committe Members
José Manuel Serrano
Amador Suarez
Francisco Moreno
Luís Bárcena
Luís Guerrero
Melchor Miralles
Pascual Cervera
Pedro Trapote
Antonio Medina
Enrique Riquelme
Antonio Serrano
The evolution of Real Madrid is closely linked to the role played by its coaches. They built the character and personality that has distinguished our players in history. From Arthur John's times (the first coach in the Club) until now, every coach has contributed with his own wisdom to the creation of a team that will make a huge difference. The outcome of their work is in every title achieved. From first to last, all of them made their own contribution for the making of the Best Club in History.
Bernd Schuster
· DATE OF BIRTH:December 22, 1946
· PLACE OF BIRTH: Ludwigshafen (Alemania)
· INCORPORATION: 2007
· Fabio Capello
· NATIONALITY: Italian
· INCORPORACIÓN: 2006
· LENGTH: 1 Year
1
· NATIONALITY: Spanish
· INCORPORACIÓN: 2005
· LENGTH: 6 months
· NATIONALITY: Brazilian
· INCORPORATION: 2004
· LENGTH: 11 months
· NATIONALITY: Spanish
· INCOR PORACION: 2004
· LENGTH: 3 months
· NATIONALITY: Spanish
· INCORPORATION: 2004
· LENGTH: 3 months
· NATIONALITY: Portuguese
· INCORPORATION: 2003
· LENGTH: 1 year
1
· NATIONALITY: Spanish
· INCORPORATION: 1999
· LENGTH: 3 Years and 7 months
2
1
1
2
1
· NATIONALITY: Wales
· INCORPORATION: 1998
· LENGTH: 9 months
Team Photograph
PLAYERS-26.
Ø GOALKEEPERS-3.
1. Iker Casillas Fernandez(1)-Spain.
2. Jerzy Dudek-Poland.
3. Jordi Cordina-Spain.
Ø DEFENDERS-9.
1. Michel Salgado Fernandez(2)-Spain.
2. Sergio Ramos(4)-Spain.
3. Fabio Cannavaro(5)-Italy.
4. Marcelo Vieira(12)-Brazil.
5. Kleper Laveran ‘Pepe’-Brazil, Portugal. ,
6. Christoph Metzelder-Germany.
7. Miguel Torres Gomez-Spain.
8. Royston Ricky Drenthe- Netherlands.
9. Gabriel Ivan Heinze-Argentina(10).
Ø MIDFIELDERS-8.
1. Guti.Haaz (14) (Jose Maria Gutierrez Hernandez) –Spain.
2. Muhammadou Diarra-Mali.
3. Julio Cesar Baptista- Brazil.
4. Javier ‘Rocky’ Balboa-Spain, Mali. ,
5. Esteban Granero-Spain.
6. Fernando Gago-Argentina.
7. Arjen Robben-Netherlands.
8. Wesley Sniejder- Netherlands(23).
Ø FORWARDS-6.
1. Gonzalo Higuain-Argentina, France. ,
2. Raul Gonzales Blanco (7)-Captain-Spain.
3. Robson D’Souza ‘Robinho’ (10)-Brazil.
4. Ruud Van Nistelrooy- Netherlands(17).
5. Javier Saviola-Argentina.
6. Roberto Soldado Rillo-Spain.
Players in detail
Place of birth
Móstoles (Madrid)
Date of birth:
20/05/1981
Weight:
70 Kg
Height:
185 cms
Nationality:
Another product of the inexhaustible Madrid pool of players. His agility and his reflexes have taken him to the Madrid starting eleven, and to be the keeper for the national team in the last World Cup in Korea and Japan, and in the European Cup in Portugal. In both teams he is an incontrovertible choice, with a guarantee of a spectacular track record for his young age.
His journey in Real Madrid started in the juniors of Madrid in the 1990/91 season. Since coming to the club, the keeper from Móstoles went step by step through all the teams at the City of Sports.
In the 98/99 season he saw his dreams come true when he was called up for the main team. That season he played in the Third Division team, and one year later moved to the first team of Real Madrid. All this meteoric ascent was rewarded by a call to join the lower categories of the Spanish national team. He was one of the main reasons for their getting the title of Ander 21s World Champions for the year 2000.
From the 1999/2000 season he formed part of the Real Madrid first team, in which he took his place like a veteran. He was called one of the “Heroes of Glasgow” by the press thanks to his incredible saves in the last minutes of the Champions of 2002.
He has excellent reflexes and is an excellent shot stopper. He is Real Madrid and Spain’s No.1 Goalkeeper. He was named the European goalkeeper of the year 2007.
· 2 Ligas: 2000-01 / 2002-03
· 2 Spanish Supercups: 2001 / 2003
· 2 UEFA Champions League: 1999-2000 / 2001-02
· 1 UEFA Supercup: 2002
· 1 Intercontinental Cup: 2002
· 1 World Cup under 20: 1999
· 1 World Cup under 16: 1997
· 1 Bravo Trophy: 2000
1997
· World Cup Under 16
1999
· November 12: Début with the first team, Athletic Bilbao 2 - 2 Real Madrid
· World Cup Under 20
2000
· UEFA Champions League
· Bravo Trophy
2001
· Liga
· Spanish Supercup
2002
· UEFA Champions League
· UEFA Supercup
· Intercontinental Cup
2003
· Liga
· Spanish Supercup
Iker Casillas is a person who is very involved with the people around him. He likes to go out with his friends and listen to Spanish music. One of his favourite dishes is fried eggs with fries.
Realmadrid-a legacy
Realmadrid celebrates!
About Me
- Rafi-el futbol star
- I am a 16 yr old, I luv futbol and I am a die-hard madridista and I fully support Real Madrid.I have a passion for Spain and I luv Spanish.
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