Last update December 2, 2024 by Alberto Llopis
The signing of Fernando Redondo for Real Madrid in 1994 It is one of the best Real Madrid moves of the years 90. This transfer not only marked a before and after in the Argentine midfielder's career., but also consolidated an era of success for the white club that lasted a few seasons, thanks to the elegance and leadership that this player brought to the Madrid midfield.
A talent that shone in Tenerife
Before his arrival at Real Madrid, Fernando Redondo had already earned a prominent place in Spanish football. His time at CD Tenerife, under the direction of Jorge Valdano, catapulted him to stardom. The midfielder became a key piece of the Canarian team, standing out for his vision of the game, his ability to distribute the ball with precision and his composure in high-pressure situations.
In Tenerife, Redondo not only shined individually, but it helped the club to consolidate itself in the First Division. It was in that period when the big clubs began to notice him, but it would be Real Madrid who would take the biggest prize.
How did Fernando Redondo's signing for Real Madrid come about??
In the summer of 1994, Real Madrid was in a restructuring phase under the direction of Jorge Valdano. After having lost the League title in the season 1993-94 and with the need to reinforce the center of the field, The Madrid club set its eyes on Fernando Redondo, who stood out in Spanish football for his technical ability and vision of the game.
Redondo, who at that time was one of the most important figures of the Argentine team and the Real Madrid rival, the Real Madrid rival, the Real Madrid rival, Atlético de Madrid and a team with a great player base.
Real Madrid paid an amount close to 1.000 million pesetas (around 6 million euros at that time), a considerable number at the time, which demonstrates the club's confidence in his talent.
Redondo's influence on Real Madrid
Fernando Redondo came to the club with the mission of improving play creation and providing balance in the midfield. His playing style, elegant and tactically superior, He fit perfectly with the philosophy of Real Madrid, a club that in the years 90 He was rebuilding his identity after several seasons without winning the League. The Argentine midfielder did not take long to demonstrate his quality.
From the moment of your arrival, Fernando Redondo He became a reference in the Madrid midfield. His playing style, marked by elegance and ball control, allowed him to stand out as one of the best midfielders of his generation. In his six seasons with Real Madrid (1994-2000), Redondo managed to win:
- 2 Spanish leagues (1994-95 Y 1996-97).
- 2 UEFA Champions Leagues (1997-98 Y 1999-2000).
- 1 Spain Supercup (1997).
- 1 Intercontinental Cup (1998).
One of the most memorable moments of his time at the club was during the Champions League 1999-2000, where he made a magical play against Manchester United : Redondo's backheel at Old Trafford that left fans speechless and sealed his status as a football legend.
Redondo: A leader on and off the field
In addition to his sporting achievements, Fernando Redondo stood out for his leadership and professionalism. He was a player respected by both his teammates and his rivals., thanks to his character. His ability to read the game and lead the team from midfield made him the heart of Real Madrid during his time at the club..
Redondo's Departure and His Legacy at Real Madrid
After several years at Real Madrid, Redondo left the club in 2000, after a series of injuries that reduced his performance. His departure for AC Milan, although somewhat bitter, did not tarnish his legacy. The Argentine left his mark on the hearts of Madrid fans and is remembered as one of the best midfielders in the history of Real Madrid.
Today, several decades later, Fernando Redondo continues to be a symbol of Real Madrid, being recognized for his unique style of play and his contribution in one of the most important periods in the club's recent history.
