A Magical Reunion: Celebrating Oviedo’s Football Legends

In a remarkable two-hour event, Oviedo fans had the opportunity to close their eyes and revisit the glorious moments of the club’s history. Generations spanning from the 1960s to the present gathered on the pitch at Carlos Tartiere. The legendary scorer Marianín, the top goal-scorer in the 1972-73 Primera División season, was present alongside the iconic duo of Carlos Muñoz-Hicks. They were joined by club heroes like Esteban and Michu, who fought valiantly for the badge during challenging times and played pivotal roles in the club’s return to professional football. The event was perfectly embodied by Santi Cazorla, who shared the field with these illustrious figures.

It had been 30 years since Nenad Gracan, a skilled midfielder who captivated fans in the early 90s, last set foot in Oviedo. Other notable former players, such as Dely Valdés, ‘Tito’ Pompei, Abel Xavier, and Franck Rabarivony, also responded to the call of APARO and Fondo Norte, contributing to a magical day that united Oviedo supporters around their idols.

Esteban, who understands the deep affection for the blue badge, articulated why it was easy to gather such stars: “We are not a club of great titles; we are not materialistic, but we are very sentimental.” This sentiment has led to many being fondly remembered for their time at Carlos Tartiere: “Deli or Tito are players who crossed the ocean to be here, and they are remembered as Oviedo players. When I walk the streets of Madrid or Barcelona, people say: ‘Esteban from Oviedo.’ I spent many years there, but I also played for Atlético de Madrid, Sevilla, Celta, or Almería, yet people remember me for my time in Oviedo, and it’s the same for them.”

Gracan echoed Esteban’s sentiment: “I was born in Rijeka and played there; it is my home, but Oviedo is equally important to me.” Dely Valdés emphasized the bond between the team and its supporters: “This is a team that leaves a mark, primarily because of its people. That’s what I remember most about here, the city—clean, beautiful, spectacular.” Pompei took it a step further: “Oviedo is my place in the world.” The Argentine, one of the most sought-after players, also defended the significance of those who fought for the team during its difficult years: “I met the guys who were in Tercera and they said our generation was the important one. I told them no, the true heroes, the most important in Oviedo’s history, are those who were in Tercera.”

Abel Xavier also took the opportunity to reflect on his time with the club and offered advice for the future: “This club makes an impact because it is deeply connected to its people. We must not lose our identity. Football is becoming more modern and commercial, but the foundational pillars of this club must remain intact. From the academy to the first team, everyone needs to understand what Oviedo stands for internally.” He concluded with a clear message: “To succeed, technical or tactical skill alone is not enough; heart and passion are essential. That was present in the past, and we need to reclaim it for today. Fans desire commitment on the field, and players must comprehend this to perform.”

Cazorla, the most celebrated of all, had the chance to share the pitch with many players he idolized while serving as a ball boy during his childhood at the Oviedo academy. He relished the experience and now faces the challenge of contributing to the team’s efforts to secure its place in the top tier, culminating in a celebration of the club’s centennial anniversary.