For some Real Madrid players, Saturday’s victory over Borussia Dortmund saw them become six-time winners of the Champions League – for striker Joselu Mato, it was his first, following his move from Espanyol last summer.
The 34-year-old played a major role in Real Madrid’s 15th title, having scored the two goals that saw them defeat Bayern Munich in the semi-finals. As a reward for that, he was given the final 10 minutes or so against Dortmund, replacing Jude Bellingham in the 85th minute.
Joselu spoke post-match (via Diario AS) on the differing emotions between himself and some of his Real Madrid teammates.
“For me it’s the first. These b*******, some don’t even celebrate it anymore. The dressing room is very happy to end the season like this, there is no better way. I can’t tell you how I feel, there are many things and many emotions that go through my head.
“I have been able to share this moment with my children, my wife and my mother. My oldest son was crying so much. The little one still doesn’t know so much and my wife knows everything we’ve been through over the years. The day I signed here, I dreamed of this. It’s the title that everyone wants to win.”
It remains to be seen whether Joselu will be giving the opportunity to experience this again as a Real Madrid player. He is due to return to Espanyol later this summer, although Los Blancos have the option to turn his loan deal into a permanent one.
Not bad for a player that couldn’t quite do ot on a cold, rainy Tuesday night in Stoke👌
At the end of the day football players are working professionals like everyone else… but if you follow Real Madrid then you would know that Joselu’s story is different this season. From being a paying fan at the 2022 final to a crucial part of the 15th CL trophy, the core of his story was that he was playing for his home town and a childhood dream. Other stops in his journey was experience for this pivotal moment. During the La Liga celebrations at the Town Hall he got a special mention and cheer for his exploits vs Bayern. Joselu plays for REAL MADRID.
Love Joselu, that is how you sign an older player and make a winner out of him, unlike marcos alonso, romeu and christensen lmfao
Real madrid should sign joselu and guitterez from girona instead of Davies