The question of destiny has fascinated humanity since the dawn of time. Even for many believers, a simple “if God wills” or “in sha’a Allah” doesn’t provide a satisfactory answer to the uncertainties that lie ahead. Philosophy, literature, and theology have collectively explored the nature of our future. Prominent contemporary thinker Haruki Murakami likens destiny to a sandstorm that shifts direction unpredictably. Just when you’re certain you’ve evaded it, it sneaks up behind you, constantly changing, much like nature itself. Centuries earlier, Heraclitus of Ephesus suggested that the only destiny we can truly claim is our character —the capacity we possess to shape our future since merely awaiting it proves futile.
Raúl González , a name synonymous with Real Madrid, embodies this notion of character. He has long awaited a destiny that seemed preordained—coaching the team from the bench like a prince waiting for his crown. Yet, as history teaches us, not even monarchies guarantee ascension, as evidenced by figures like Juan de Borbón and others born into royal duties. Real Madrid is not a monarchy; it operates on merit, not inheritance. It is a club, yet also a faith , and Raúl represents that belief in flesh and blood. After a long wait for a “if God wills,” it is now a moment for character—drawing upon the wisdom of Heraclitus and his own determination—to uphold Madridismo even while in exile.
A test for Raúl
This is the test Raúl needs, not only for himself but for others to gauge whether a player who has epitomized what Madrid stands for is capable of leading the first team. Those close to the situation have faith, recounting stories from academy players who sought first-team minutes. This information circulates among a handful of sporting directors and presidents who have contemplated Raúl over recent years. However, the message relayed through his loyal agent, Ginés Carvajal , has always been the same: No.
For years, Raúl has faced rejection—by teams like Espanyol during Rufete ‘s tenure as director, a struggling Sevilla, Leeds after Marcelo Bielsa’s departure, and even Schalke, where he once played, but which is now in the Second Division. Raúl is looking for a project , something that attracted him to Villarreal, but not out of desperation. The Getafe opportunity, where Ángel Torres recognizes the visibility a well-respected former player brings, allows Raúl to keep his family close in Madrid. However, with his children growing up, this is no longer a priority, except for María , his youngest, who is following in her father’s footsteps as a goal scorer in the Madrid cadet team.
Raúl González, en Valdebebas.MUNDO
Raúl anticipated a seamless transition: from being a beloved former player and captain to receiving an opportunity to coach after leading the Castilla team. Perhaps he lacked the success needed—such as promotion to the Second Division—but he still made an impact during his six years. The hardest blow came from a defeat to Eldense. While Guardiola ascended his team in Barcelona, Raúl’s team couldn’t reach that same level.
This season has been particularly challenging for Barcelona’s academy, which recently fell to the Second RFEF. However, Real Madrid’s youth program, while facing difficulties, produced players like Asencio , even though not many have made the jump to the first team. Raúl trained several promising players, including Rafa Marín , Mario Gila , and Jacobo Ramón . He has a reputation as a didactic coach , known for enabling player improvement while maintaining a strict code of conduct.
The ultimate test
The hiring of Xabi Alonso essentially marked the end of Raúl’s hopes for the coaching position. Although Alonso has a history with the club, he did not rise through the academy like Raúl did. Even when he proposed his ideas for joining the club post-World Club Cup, Madrid had no interest in Raúl. The disinterest sends a clear message: while there are players being tested, Raúl remains excluded.
“I am prepared for any challenge. And when I say any challenge, I mean any challenge,” Raúl stated in a press conference. His ambitions were clear—not merely a lesser role within the academy, particularly not one that is overseen by Manu Fernández , a non-legendary figure. Despite a great relationship with Ancelotti , he opted not to join the first team’s staff. His departure results in a liberating change, not just for Raúl but also for the club, allowing new coaches to step in. Álvaro Arbeloa will take his position, closely related to the club’s management.
At 47, Raúl must rely on his legacy to navigate the current storm and strive for a brighter future. He embodies the blend of a monk and a warrior—a figure shaped by his past yet driven to conquer the challenges ahead.