Raul Gonzalez has taken charge of Real Oviedo with a clear message: the club must return to La Liga. The former Real Madrid striker was officially unveiled as Oviedo’s new manager this week, replacing Julian Calero, and he immediately set his sights on promotion from the Segunda Division.
Raul held his first training session at the club’s facilities, El Requexón, before his formal presentation at the Carlos Tartiere stadium. Sporting director David Fernández was alongside him as he addressed the media, expressing pride and ambition in equal measure. “The goal must be none other, being at Real Oviedo, than to be in the First Division,” Raul said.
The 44-year-old left his role at Real Madrid’s youth setup to take on this new challenge. He revealed there were other offers on the table but was convinced by Oviedo’s ownership and infrastructure. “I had some approaches from other clubs, but I was convinced by this ownership, which is serious, has been helping the city for some time, has a developing sports complex, and is key to continued growth. I’ve found people in the sporting and general management, I’ve spoken with Cazorla, with César, and I feel it’s a place where I can do what I want.”
Raul’s vision for the team involves an attacking style that connects with local supporters. “We want to create an identity with the team, a team that resonates with the fans, a team with a strong identity, one that seeks goals,” he said. “I like a vertical, aggressive team that looks for goals, that knows how to defend… We’ll try to be well-positioned and we’ll fight for our objective.”
Drawing on the experience he gained as captain and leader at Real Madrid, Raul intends to bring a similar mindset to Oviedo. “We were lucky enough to be at Real Madrid, to be captain, to help many teammates. There are similarities, some nuances, and that experience helps us understand footballers,” he explained.
Oviedo’s next match is at home against Girona FC this Saturday. Raul will start his managerial career with limited preparation and without international loanee Enzo Perez, who is unavailable for the fixture.
When asked if this role was a stepping stone toward managing Real Madrid’s first team, Raul was clear. “Do I see myself at Real Madrid in the future? I see myself staying here. This is where I’ve been given the opportunity and the trust. And I’m very happy. I can’t stop smiling; I’m privileged to go and train this team every day,” he said.
Raul’s appointment brings fresh focus to Oviedo’s promotion hopes as the season progresses, with the club’s supporters eager to see how the former striker’s approach translates on the pitch.
According to Yahoo Sports.
