Fernando Redondo - The Elegant Midfield General

Fernando Redondo, born on June 6, 1969, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is regarded as one of the most elegant and intelligent defensive midfielders in football history. Known for his exceptional ball control, vision, and defensive awareness, Redondo played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s Champions League triumphs in the late 1990s. His composure under pressure and ability to dictate the tempo made him a unique and unforgettable player.

Early Life and Career

Redondo started his career at Argentinos Juniors (1985–1990), where he quickly gained a reputation as a graceful midfielder with outstanding technical ability. His performances earned him a move to Spain, where he joined CD Tenerife (1990–1994) under coach Jorge Valdano, a key figure in his career.

At Tenerife, he played a major role in blocking Real Madrid from winning La Liga twice (1991–92, 1992–93), which ironically helped him secure a move to Real Madrid in 1994.

Real Madrid – The Midfield Maestro

Redondo became the heart of Real Madrid’s midfield, leading them to multiple domestic and European titles.

With Real Madrid, he won:
🏆 2 UEFA Champions League titles (1997–98, 1999–2000)
🏆 2 La Liga titles (1994–95, 1996–97)
🏆 1 Intercontinental Cup (1998)
🏆 1 Supercopa de España (1997)

🥇 1999–2000 UEFA Champions League Best Player – Redondo was instrumental in Madrid’s triumph, producing one of the most famous assists in football history against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

💎 The “Backheel Nutmeg” on Henning Berg – In the 2000 Champions League quarter-finals, Redondo backheeled the ball around Manchester United’s defender before providing an assist for Raúl, a move still remembered as a moment of genius.

Despite being a fan favorite, he was controversially sold to AC Milan in 2000 due to conflicts with Madrid’s president Florentino Pérez.

AC Milan – The Unlucky Spell

Redondo joined AC Milan in 2000, but a serious knee injury kept him out for over two years. Despite barely playing, he showed his class and humility by refusing his salary while injured, an act of integrity rarely seen in modern football.

With AC Milan, he won:
🏆 1 UEFA Champions League (2002–03)
🏆 1 Coppa Italia (2002–03)
🏆 1 UEFA Super Cup (2003)

After struggling with injuries, Redondo retired in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of grace, intelligence, and sportsmanship.

Argentina National Team – The Missed Opportunity

Despite his talent, Redondo played only 29 times for Argentina, due to disagreements with coaches.

🏆 1992 FIFA Confederations Cup Winner
🏆 1993 Copa América Winner

Redondo famously refused to play in the 1998 FIFA World Cup under coach Daniel Passarella, who demanded all players cut their long hair—Redondo refused, standing by his personal principles.

Many believe Argentina could have been even stronger with Redondo alongside Diego Simeone and Juan Sebastián Verón in midfield.

Playing Style and Legacy

✅ One of the most technically gifted defensive midfielders ever
✅ A deep-lying playmaker with elegance and intelligence
✅ Unmatched composure under pressure
✅ A true leader without being overly vocal

Redondo was a rare mix of defensive discipline and attacking creativity, inspiring modern midfielders like Sergio Busquets and Toni Kroos.

Later Career and Retirement

After retirement, Redondo stayed away from football coaching and media, choosing a private life. However, he remains one of the most respected figures in football history.

Teams Played For

Argentinos Juniors (1985–1990)
CD Tenerife (1990–1994)
Real Madrid (1994–2000)
AC Milan (2000–2004)

Legacy

✅ One of the greatest deep-lying midfielders in history
✅ 1999–2000 Champions League Best Player
✅ A footballer who combined elegance with tactical intelligence
✅ A role model for sportsmanship and professionalism

Fernando Redondo was more than just a midfielder—he was a footballing artist, a leader without words, and a symbol of elegance in the modern game. His unique style and integrity ensure he will always be remembered as one of the greatest midfielders to ever play the game.