After a decade at Real Madrid, Jesús Vallejo has embarked on a new chapter in his career, signing with Albacete in Spain’s second division. The defender’s journey began at Real Zaragoza, where he developed from 2007 to 2014 before making the pivotal move to the iconic “Casa Blanca.” Vallejo recalls the moment he decided to stay at Zaragoza despite interest from clubs like Villarreal and Atlético Madrid, stating, “At that time, Zaragoza had bet on me, and I felt good there.” However, joining Real Madrid at just 18 years old was a transformative experience.
The switch to Madrid came during a vacation when Vallejo’s agent informed him of an offer from Los Blancos that matched his release clause of €5 million. “I wanted to return to Zaragoza to settle things with the club,” he explained. “I was delighted to have another year with them.” His time at Madrid, spanning from 2015 to 2025, featured multiple loan spells but also significant learning experiences.
Lessons from Legends
In a recent interview with Post United, Vallejo opened up about his experiences in the Real Madrid dressing room, particularly highlighting Cristiano Ronaldo‘s impact. “The player who surprised me the most was Cristiano. His consistency and dedication set him apart,” Vallejo shared. The Portuguese star not only offered guidance but also created an environment where younger players could thrive.
Zinedine Zidane‘s influence was equally profound during Vallejo’s tenure. “In my first season, I didn’t play much, but Zidane was always clear with us,” he noted. “He helped his players at every moment. Roles were defined, yet nothing was set in stone; anyone could earn their spot.” This supportive atmosphere played a crucial role in Vallejo’s development as a player.
The Power of the Bernabéu
Vallejo also spoke about the unique atmosphere of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. “The Bernabéu is special. I noticed that even top players from PSG or Manchester City made mistakes when playing there,” he remarked. The stadium’s intimidating presence affects opponents significantly. “I’ve never played there as a visitor, but I’ve seen how it can turn matches around by itself,” he added. The pressure it exerts is palpable, and Vallejo believes that this factor contributes to its legendary status.
As he embarks on his new adventure with Albacete, Vallejo carries with him invaluable lessons and memories from his time at Real Madrid. His reflections serve as a reminder of the high standards and expectations that come with wearing the famous white jersey. Will he be able to replicate his success at Albacete? Only time will tell as he takes this next step in his football journey.
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