Pisa – A career packed with trophies, experience at Europe's top clubs, and a World Cup win with Spain. Yet, for Raul Albiol, the most important challenge comes today, at 40, with Pisa, newly promoted to Serie A after a 34-year absence.
"Pisa did everything they could to convince me, and I will do the same to repay their trust. This is the most important challenge of my career: fighting for survival with a team that wants to write a new page in history ," said the former Real Madrid and Napoli player. Meanwhile, on Sunday, a special clash awaits him at the Maradona, against the club where he played 180 games and with whom he lifted an Italian Cup and an Italian Super Cup.
"Returning to Naples will be special ," he confesses, " because it's my home. I had some spectacular years there, and I grew as a man and a footballer. The affection I receive from the Napoli fans after so many years is something that still moves me." Albiol feels ready for this new adventure: "My fitness is close to 100%, and I'll work to give everything on the pitch."
Finally, a thought on the many veterans who have arrived in Serie A this season, from Modric to Dzeko to Vardy: "There are players who, even though they're getting on in years, still have a lot to offer. That's the case with me, but also with Modric and the others. You never stop learning, not even at 40." For Pisa, Albiol isn't just a transfer coup, but a leader ready to lead the Nerazzurri through their most difficult challenge yet: staying in Serie A.
Albiol has an impressive career, but I wonder if at 40 he can really make a difference in a team like Pisa. It's certainly a tough challenge, and survival is never guaranteed. Let's hope so.