Alavés

Deportivo Alavés, more commonly known as Alavés, has a history that mirrors a thrilling roller-coaster ride. Founded in 1921, they’ve had their fair share of ups and downs in Spanish football, including stints in the third tier, a remarkable UEFA Cup final appearance, and of course, their current status in LaLiga.

“Stellar Moments: The Icons of Alavés”

Alavés has been home to many notable figures in football, who’ve left an indelible mark on the club’s rich tapestry. Their presence has echoed through the years, and their contributions are still celebrated by the faithful.

Jordi Cruyff, son of the legendary Johan Cruyff, donned the Alavés shirt at the turn of the millennium. With him leading the line, the club reached its zenith, featuring in the UEFA Cup final in 2001.

Then there’s the all-action forward, John Guidetti. The Swede brought with him a wealth of experience from his time at Manchester City and Celtic, before stepping onto the pitch at Mendizorrotza.

In recent times, Lucas Pérez, formerly of Arsenal and West Ham, has been a critical figure for the Babazorros. His goals and creativity have often been the difference in crucial ties.

“The Heat of Battle: Alavés’ Fierce Rivalries”

Football is as much about the battles off the pitch as it is about the ones on it. Alavés has had its fair share of riveting rivalries.

At the top of the list is the Basque rivalry with Athletic Bilbao. The ‘Basque Derby’ is more than just a football match; it’s a clash of cultures and pride, a spectacle that sets the region ablaze.

Outside LaLiga, Alavés encountered Liverpool in a memorable UEFA Cup final in 2001. The enthralling match, which saw Alavés push the English giants to the brink, sowed the seeds of a captivating rivalry.

Additionally, Real Zaragoza is another rival that shares a history of intense, highly-charged encounters with Alavés. Their meetings, especially during Alavés’ Segunda Division days, have been nothing short of electric.

“Echoes from the Stands: Experiencing Mendizorrotza”

Mendizorrotza Stadium, or ‘Mendi’ as it’s affectionately known, is the beating heart of Alavés. One of the oldest stadiums in Spain, it is a venue steeped in history and tradition, offering an intimate football-watching experience that makes every spectator feel part of the action.

The Preferred Grandstand, despite being pricier, offers the best views. With the average ticket prices ranging from €65 to €95, it is perfect for those looking to savor every detail of the game.

For a cheaper alternative, the South Goal area is a fantastic option. Tickets here usually cost around €40 to €60. While the view may not be as comprehensive as the Grandstand, the atmosphere is just as electric, offering a real taste of the passionate Alavés fanbase.

Regardless of where you sit, a visit to Mendizorrotza is sure to offer a rich, authentically Basque, football experience that encapsulates the essence of Alavés – the pride of Vitoria-Gasteiz.

More Great History

• UEFA Cup Final Run: Alavés’ UEFA Cup run in 2000-2001 was a highlight in their history. Despite ultimately losing to Liverpool in a thrilling final that ended 5-4 after extra time, it marked the first time Alavés had ever reached a major European final.
• Promotion Specialists: Alavés are known for their resilience, having climbed back from the third tier of Spanish football to LaLiga multiple times in their history. Their most recent ascent came in 2016, and they’ve managed to maintain their top-flight status since then.
• Managerial Carousel: Alavés is renowned for frequent managerial changes. In the 2017-18 season alone, they had three different managers. Despite this, the club has continued to compete and maintain its status in LaLiga.
• Intimate Home Ground: Mendizorrotza is one of the smallest stadiums in LaLiga, with a seating capacity of just under 20,000. However, it is renowned for its atmosphere, with the close proximity of the stands to the pitch ensuring fans feel part of the action.
• Notable Ex-Players: In addition to the players mentioned earlier, Alavés has also been home to some of football’s famous names like Gaizka Mendieta and Martín Astudillo, both of whom played crucial roles in the club’s historic run in the UEFA Cup.