Ranking the top 10 captains in Real Madrid history

Real Madrid. (Photo by Visionhaus)
Real Madrid. (Photo by Visionhaus)
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Raul, Real Madrid (Photo by Stephane Reix/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images)

4. Raúl Gonzalez Blanco

Raúl was a deadly attacker who rose to the ranks after making his debut over a smooth transition from the Real Madrid Academy. From 1994 to 2010, the Spanish player worked on his game and became a trusted man by the Real Madrid management. The player won three consecutive UEFA champions league in 1998, 2000 and 2002 before becoming the captain in 2003.

From 2003 until 2010, Raúl Gonzalez Blanco led Real Madrid to honourable milestones as a phenomenal forward and captain who mentored a squad worth every dime on the field and bench. Two LaLiga titles and two Spanish super cups were won without hesitation, with Raúl captaining the journey to win the same.

This meant that the squad constantly adapted as each day passed every season, and this can be seen at the present moment also with how the players are composed, understanding of what it means playing for the white badge. The squad with the Spanish players’ Madridismo philosophy became a team focused on holistic development.

In 2010, his term as a captain was terminated following his move to FC Schalke 04 in Germany from Spain. However, it was evident during his maturing that Raúl can see beyond the ground and would be a suitable candidate if he ever sets his eye on a management role.

At the present moment, he is the manager of Real Madrid Castilla, and this is a fairy-tale we are living as the legend paved his way from the Real Madrid academy and is now a coach to help the next generation by guiding them to understand univocally the Los Blancos meaning so each player is groomed to comprehend with their thinking caps of the luxury being passed for generations to come without strings attached.

 3. Fernando Hierro

Fernando Hierro played for the club from 1989 to 2003. After successfully syncing his athleticism, he became the captain from 2001 to 2003. The idea of making the Spanish showstopper the captain came into the limelight because he could manage the map with attention to detail. His interceptions and ability to direct the ball and communicate with the team in the dressing room and the field were profound.

Likewise, the Real Madrid defender was a La Fábrica graduate, which explains how he amalgamated to be the club’s leader during his stint. As a capable captain, the trophies won under his regime were the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, LaLiga competition, and the Intercontinental Cup.

Hierro remains a prominent figure in Spanish football and Real Madrid. The player was played as a midfielder when the occasion rose as interception of the ball, coming short to retain the ball and further pass it ahead is what his defensive flair guaranteed. Fernando is remembered vividly and used as an example of how defenders can simultaneously contain the ball and position.