Redondo: “My back-heel against United was a moment of inspiration”

It’s been 20 years since Real Madrid legend Fernando Redondo, one of the best defensive midfielders in the history of the club, assisted Raul after a brilliant back-heel for Real Madrid’s third goal against Manchester United in Old Trafford. Los Blancos advanced to the Semifinals and ended up winning their eighth Champions League title that year.

Redondo has talked to AS about his famous play in Manchester.

“It’s crazy to me that 20 years have passed. I remember that play very well, it started on our own part of the field, I get the ball from Roberto Carlos and then combine with Savio, so I go forward through the left flank. On that one-on-one duel my back-heel was just a resource, a moment of inspiration. I hadn’t done that before as a professional, sometimes I did it as a young player growing up with Argentinos Juniors. It was important for me to take a look and pause to see Raul getting to the far post and then assist him for the goal,” explained Redondo.

The Argentinian midfielder is unanimously considered a Real Madrid legend but he stays humble after so many years.

“I don’t consider myself a legend, but it’s so good seeing that every time I go to Madrid I receive the warmth from the people after so many years. It keeps surprising me,” he added.

Redondo also discussed Real Madrid’s 2019-2020 season and supported both Zidane and the players.

“Everyone who has been in Real Madrid knows that the criticism is part of Madrid’s history and how important the club is. From that perspective, it’s amazing how naturally Zidane behaves and shows the great coach he is,” says Redondo.

The former midfielder also talked about Madrid’s transfer policy.

“I think it’s right! Madrid always believed on their academy, not only through young signings. In fact, you can name many, many players who grew up in Madrid’s academy, then left and then had the chance to return to the first team, knowing that it’s important for young players to adapt and mature away from Real’s pressure,” he explained.

Redondo wrapped the interview up by revealing that he wants to become a coach.

“I had two offers last year but it wasn’t the right moment. I had scheduled a trip to Spain, Italy and England to see and compare the different work they do there, I will obviously have to wait a bit now because of the situation, but I want to become a coach and that’s clear in my mind,” he concluded.

Redondo’s understanding of the game as a midfielder was off the charts and it’s fairly clear that he should have the potential to become a good coach if he is able to communicate well with the players.

His back-heel against Manchester United remains as one of Real Madrid’s most beautiful plays of the 21st century.