Real Valladolid

Journey into the world of Spanish football and you’ll encounter Real Valladolid Club de Fútbol. Residing in the historic city of Valladolid, this team – affectionately known as ‘Pucela’ – has consistently been part of the vibrant tapestry that is LaLiga.

Founded in 1928, Real Valladolid had to patiently wait until 1948 before stepping onto the big stage of LaLiga. Over the course of the next several decades, the team showed its resilience, alternating between the first and second divisions but always maintaining a fighting spirit. The peak of Pucela’s achievement came in the late ’80s, clinching 4th place in LaLiga in 1989 and also reaching the final of the Copa del Rey in 1989 and 1992.

Throughout its history, Real Valladolid has been graced by some remarkable talents. Fabián Orellana, the gifted winger who also shined at Celta Vigo and Valencia, made a real impact during his time here. Patrick Ebert, the German midfielder, brought his Bundesliga experience from Hertha BSC to Valladolid, leaving a lasting impression.

We certainly can’t overlook José Luis Caminero, the local hero turned Atlético Madrid icon. Caminero was not just a symbol of Valladolid’s tenacity but also a critical player for Spain’s national team. To date, his legacy lives on in the annals of Pucela history.

Rivalries add that extra spice to football, don’t they? Real Valladolid has quite a few intriguing ones. The traditional duel with CD Numancia is known as the Castile and León derby, and it always brings out passion from both sides. However, their rivalry with Salamanca CF, another team from the region, is equally intense.

For international rivalries, Valladolid’s duels with Benfica in the UEFA Cup have been memorable. While not regular competitors, their matches have created some electric football moments, illustrating Valladolid’s ability to compete at a high level.

As an observer of this beautiful game, the José Zorrilla Stadium is where you’d want to be. Named after the famous 19th-century Spanish poet, the stadium has a capacity of over 27,000 spectators. It’s not just a venue for football matches; it’s a cultural and emotional symbol for the people of Valladolid.

Now, where to sit at the José Zorrilla Stadium for the perfect view? If you’re seeking an up-close and personal experience with the action, sections 1 to 4, close to the pitch, will offer a dynamic view, although the tickets here could range from €70 to €120, depending on the game.

For a more panoramic experience, you might want to consider the Tribuna Este or Oeste. Here you can catch all the tactical movement from a bird’s-eye view, with ticket prices around €45 to €65. If you’re on a budget, sections 10 to 12, usually priced at €25 to €35, could provide a balance between cost and a decent view.

So, that’s Real Valladolid – a team rich in history, adorned by remarkable talents, and fueled by passionate rivalries. Whether you’re at the José Zorrilla Stadium or watching from afar, being part of the Pucela experience is a real treat for any football lover. Each kick, each cheer, each chant – it’s not just about the game, it’s about being part of something greater, something that defines Valladolid – it’s about being part of Pucela. Enjoy the experience!

Filling in the Spaces

• Homegrown Talent: Real Valladolid has a reputation for nurturing homegrown talent through its academy, Promesas. It has produced players like Alfonso, who later made his mark with both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.
• Prolific Goalscorer: Valladolid’s all-time top goalscorer is Manuel Badenes, who netted a remarkable 96 goals for the club during his spell from 1952 to 1960.
• First Division Achievement: Their longest streak in the First Division is 13 consecutive seasons, from 1980 to 1993.
• The Ronaldo Connection: In 2018, the club caught international headlines when Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário became the majority stakeholder. His arrival infused fresh optimism into the club and increased its global recognition.
• Famous Coaches: The club has been managed by some notable figures in Spanish football, such as Vicente Cantatore, who led the team to the 1989 Copa del Rey Final, and José Luis Mendilibar, who enjoyed a successful stint at Valladolid before coaching Eibar and Levante.
• Community Involvement: Real Valladolid is deeply embedded in its local community. The club runs numerous initiatives and programs aimed at promoting sport and healthy living within Valladolid.