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Cazorla and Xabi Alonso Reunite as Oviedo Faces Real Madrid

10 months agoUS
Cazorla and Xabi Alonso Reunite as Oviedo Faces Real MadridSource: marca.com
Santi Cazorla, the Oviedo midfielder, nearly joined Real Madrid in 2008, but the transfer was blocked by Villarreal's president. Now, as Oviedo returns to Primera División, Cazorla faces Real Madrid, managed by his former Spain teammate Xabi Alonso. This game is more than just a league fixture; it's a reunion of two Spanish football legends on opposite sides of the pitch.

Key Insights

Cazorla's Almost Transfer:: In 2008, Santi Cazorla was on the verge of signing for Real Madrid from Villarreal, but the deal fell through due to financial disagreements and Roig´s intervention.

Reunion of Legends:: The match between Real Oviedo and Real Madrid marks a reunion between Santi Cazorla and Xabi Alonso, who were key players for the Spanish national team during its golden era.

Historical Significance:: Oviedo is hosting a Primera División match after 24 years, adding to the emotional weight of the game for fans.

Why this matters: This game is a significant event, blending a forgotten transfer saga with the reunion of two Spanish football legends, set against the backdrop of Oviedo's long-awaited return to top-flight football.

In-Depth Analysis

Background

The paths of Santi Cazorla and Xabi Alonso have been intertwined for years, most notably during their time together on the Spanish national team. Both were instrumental in Spain's triumphs in the 2008 and 2012 European Championships.

Cazorla's Unfulfilled Dream

In 2008, Cazorla was close to becoming a Real Madrid player. A deal was agreed upon, but Villarreal president Fernando Roig blocked the transfer due to disagreements over transfer fees and taxes. This thwarted move has been a recurring theme in Cazorla's career narrative.

Xabi Alonso's Coaching Role

Xabi Alonso, now the coach of Real Madrid, adds another layer of intrigue to this encounter. Alonso has lauded Cazorla as an exceptional player and teammate, emphasizing the respect and affection he holds for the veteran midfielder.

Oviedo's Return to Primera División

Real Oviedo is back in Primera División after a long absence, making this match against Real Madrid an emotional event for the club and its fans. The Carlos Tartiere stadium is set to host its first top-flight match in 24 years.

Statistical Oddities

Of the current Oviedo squad, only Santi Cazorla and Eric Bailly have previously won against Real Madrid. Cazorla achieved this with Recreativo de Huelva in 2006, while Bailly did so with Villarreal in 2015.

How to Prepare

For Oviedo Fans:: Embrace the historical moment and support the team as they face one of the giants of Spanish football.

For Madrid Fans:: Recognize the sentimental value of this match for Cazorla and Oviedo, while expecting a competitive performance from your team.

Who This Affects Most

Real Oviedo Fans:: This game marks the end of a long wait and a return to the top tier of Spanish football.

Santi Cazorla:: A chance to face the team he almost joined, and to prove his quality against top-level opposition.

Xabi Alonso:: As a coach, he faces a sentimental reunion with a former teammate, adding a personal dimension to the professional challenge.

FAQs

Why did Cazorla's transfer to Real Madrid fail?

The transfer was blocked by Villarreal president Fernando Roig due to disagreements over transfer fees and taxes.

How many times has Cazorla played against Real Madrid?

Cazorla has played against Real Madrid 18 times, with only one victory.

Which other Oviedo player has won against Real Madrid?

Eric Bailly is the only other player in the current Oviedo squad who has won against Real Madrid.

Key Takeaways

Santi Cazorla's near signing with Real Madrid adds intrigue to his current face-off against them with Oviedo.

The match signifies Oviedo's return to Primera División after a 24-year absence.

The reunion of Cazorla and Xabi Alonso highlights their shared history and mutual respect.

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