Real Madrid is one of the biggest clubs in the world. Many players dream of donning the iconic white shirt, but only the fortunate few are privileged. Super Eagles legend, Finidi George revealed on the La Liga TV show that he had the opportunity to play for La Casa Blanca and explained why the deal didn’t materialize.

The Nigerian man, tall and physically strong, played as a right winger and was known for his pace, effervescence and dribbling skills.

He played for Ajax Amsterdam between 1993 and 1996 — Ajax is a club that loves to nurture talented players and sell them at a high price. However, after losing the UEFA Champions League in 1996 against Juventus, the club wanted him to go.

“After our Champions League final defeat to Juventus [in 1995/96], the coach made it clear that they wanted to sell me and even if I stayed back at Ajax, that I was not going to play”.

“At that time, Real Madrid was interested in signing me but as at that time, they didn’t have the kind of money that they have now. Real Betis then came with a good offer and I had to go. My stay there was memorable”.

Finidi was a joy for the Balompies to watch, especially when he wore his hat. He even scored in the Copa Del Rey final against Barcelona, which the Betis team lost. He scored 38 goals in 130 appearances for the club and spent four years with them before moving to Mallorca — the club he retired from.