Raúl González Blanco. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. Raúl has consistently been one of the top strikers in the world since his making his professional debut in 1994. A dedicated servant to Real Madrid until last season, he moved to Schalke 04 in what seemed to many as an admission that he couldn’t cut it at Madrid anymore. However, the veteran Spaniard has just provided us with 2 exceptional performances in the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final against Internazionale. 2 goals over 2 legs, and a masterclass in movement and all round gameplay. He’s proved to be an inspirational signing for the German Club.
His goal in the 2nd leg reminded us of his immense talent and composure in the box. Making a great run which completely baffled Lucio and then rounding Cesar with some fast footwork, Raúl reinforced his position as the most successful striker in European Football. Holding the record for the most goals in the Champions League (A staggering 72 goals), being tied for the highest number of goals in the knockout stages (18 goals, tied with Andriy Shevchenko), Madrid’s all time leading scorer (323 goals in 741 appearances), his legend refuses to die.
His last touch for Madrid was a crucial equalizer which he scored while being injured. His dedication to the cause can never be doubted and his leadership on the field motivates his teammates to give their all.
A dream finale may be on the cards if Schalke 04 face off against Madrid on 28th May in London’s Wembley Stadium, but first he has the small matter of getting past Ferguson’s United who despite not being at their best are steamrolling past competition.
Madrid as well have to get past arch nemesis Barcelona to reach Wembley. He’s inspired Schalke in their dream run this season and he’ll be the player everyone will look to against Manchester United.
6 La Liga’s, 3 Champions League Winner Medals, 2 Intercontinental Cups, 4 time Supercopa winner, you just can’t buy that kind of success.
A model professional, any young striker wanting to make it big should look at Raúl for a lesson in finishing, movement and leadership. Always one to play for the team, Raúl inspires his fellow teammates to reach new heights.
We all talk about Messi and Ronaldo, the “phenom’s” as they are called, but they learnt their craft watching the best, and there is none better than Raúl.
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