Former Real Madrid and Spanish goalkeeping legend Iker Casillas have decided to draw the curtain on his 21-year illustrious career. Arguably the best goalkeeper of his generation, the now 39-year-old spent the better part of his career at his boyhood club Real Madrid. He finished his career with Portuguese giants, FC Porto.
He made his debut for Los Blancos at the tender age of 18 but impressed the coaches and the fans with his acrobatic saves and flying skills. Saint Iker as he was fondly called by the Real Madrid fans, is a pioneer of ball-playing goalkeepers who operate as sweepers sometimes.
Casillas made over 500 appearances for Real Madrid and witnessed different phases of the galactico eras. He was also a stalwart for the Spanish national team as he was an integral part of the golden generation which won 2 European Championships in succession as well as the 2010 World Cup held in South Africa.
Just like every other great goalkeeper, Casillas had disappointing stints which led to him being a backup goalkeeper at Real Madrid. However, the 6ft shot-stopper always redeemed himself with stellar performances.
He captained Real Madrid for five years after the departures of two of Madrid’s longest-serving players, Raul and Guti. He went on to lead the Spanish Giants to their long-awaited 10th Champions League title.
Casillas is one of the most decorated players in the history of the game. His accolades are also notable. He is a 5-time Spanish league winner, 3-time Champions League winner, 2 time UEFA Euro Championship winner and World Cup winner.
His awards range from La Liga, Primera Liga, UEFA and FIFA. He is also a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations. It is expected that Casillas will go into football administration. He plans to contest for the post of the President of the Spanish football federation later this year.
