Raúl Albiol celebrated his 39th birthday this past September. Despite this, the Villarreal defender sees himself continuing to play for a few more years. The Spaniard has set his sights on the record of Paolo Maldini, who hung up his boots at the age of 41.
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Raúl Albiol, a key figure in Villarreal's defense, continues to defy age and expectations. The 39-year-old extended his contract with the club by one year during the summer of 2024, a decision that reflects his enduring passion for the game and his desire to remain an integral part of Villarreal's plans.
The agreement also includes an option for an additional year, underscoring the mutual trust and respect between player and club.
As the current La Liga season progresses, Albiol finds himself on the verge of a remarkable milestone: the defender could soon reach 400 appearances in Spain's top flight. This achievement would solidify his status as one of the most experienced players in the league and a testament to his consistency and durability over the years.
Albiol's football journey is one of longevity and excellence. His goal for Getafe in 2005 against a star-studded Real Madrid side featuring Zinedine Zidane, Roberto Carlos, and Ronaldo marked an early highlight in a career that would see him achieve domestic and international glory. His subsequent stints with Valencia, Napoli, and Real Madrid further showcased his versatility, leadership, and tactical intelligence, traits that have made him indispensable for Villarreal since joining the club in 2019.
Despite his age, Albiol remains unwavering in his ambition. "Paolo Maldini played until he was 41; I would like to play until I'm 45. I don't know if that's possible, but I take it year by year. I feel good, I'm happy, healthy, and injury-free," he shared in a recent interview. This statement reflects not only his admiration for one of football's all-time greats but also his own drive to push the boundaries of what is considered possible in modern football.
However, the former Spain international and World Cup winner tempers his aspirations with realism. "In Italy, it's different; relatively many players reach the age of forty there," he acknowledged, referring to Serie A's unique reputation for accommodating seasoned players. Albiol's experience with Napoli, where he spent six successful seasons, likely shaped this perspective.
At Villarreal, Albiol's contributions extend beyond the pitch. As one of the most experienced players in the squad, he serves as a mentor to younger teammates, offering guidance and sharing insights from a career that has spanned nearly two decades. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering a cohesive team spirit, helping Villarreal compete at the highest levels both domestically and in European competitions.
With over 200 appearances for Villarreal, Albiol currently ranks 11th on the club's all-time list of players with the most matches. Breaking into the top ten would require at least one more season at the club, a challenge he seems well-equipped to meet. Given his form and fitness, it is not difficult to imagine him climbing even higher in the rankings.
Albiol's influence at Villarreal goes beyond numbers and records. His calm demeanor, positional awareness, and ability to read the game have made him a cornerstone of the team's defense. These qualities were on full display during Villarreal's Europa League triumph in 2021, where his experience and leadership proved invaluable.
As he approaches his 40th birthday, Albiol's story serves as an inspiration not just for his teammates but for footballers everywhere. In an era where athletic careers are often cut short by the physical demands of the sport, his longevity is a testament to professionalism, discipline, and an undying love for the game. Whether he plays until 45 or chooses to call time on his career sooner, Raúl Albiol's legacy as one of football's most enduring and respected defenders is already firmly established.
