Featured Player: Íker Casillas
Real Madrid's last line of defense - Íker Casillas.
| Personal information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Íker Casillas Fernández | |
| Date of birth | May 20, 1981 | |
| Place of birth | Madrid, Spain | |
| Height | 1,85 m | |
| Nickname | El galáctico de Móstoles (The galactic player of Móstoles) | |
| Club information | ||
| Current club | Real Madrid | |
| Position | Goalkeeper | |
| Professional clubs* | ||
| Years | Club | Apps (goals) |
| (1999-Present) | Real Madrid | 325 (0) |
| National team** | ||
| (2000-Present) | Spain | 61 (0) |
| * Professional club appearances and goals | ||
Since 1999 Iker Casillas has been a solid rock as Real Madrid's last line of defense. Although young for a goalkeeper, his acrobatic saves leave his peers in awe. Casillas has been called upon repeatedly to maintain leads with his lightning quick reflexes. Unafraid to come off his line and cut off the angles, he is reputed for his victories in the much feared one-on-one situations.
The 23 year old made his international debut on June 6th, 2000 against Sweden earning a spot on Spain's squad for the Euro 2000. Spending the tournament on the bench did not seem to suit his style so when the 2002 FIFA World Cup rolled around, he decided that it was his time to shine. He was dubbed 'Saint Casillas' by the media due to his incredible shot-stopping, three of which were penalty saves.
Casillas inherited the Real Madrid Number 1 jersey in 1999 having started with the youth program at age eight. In his first season, he helped take his team to Champions League glory, winning the League title the same year. He would relinquish his spot to César Sánchez before once again taking charge during the 2001/2002 Champions League final against Bayer 04 Leverkusen. Casillas was instrumental in maintaining Madrid's narrow 2-1 lead in the match with a string of brilliant stops.
Still only a youngster in goalkeeping terms, Iker Casillas has nonetheless gained a huge reputation in European football. A shot-stopper par excellence, the Real Madrid player is gradually developing the commanding presence in his area which could yet see him become an all-time great.
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