Alfonso Peres Former Spanish footballer, striker for Real Madrid. Date of Birth: 26.09.1972 Country: Spain

1. Biography of Alfonso Perez
2. Early Career and Success at Real Madrid
3. Record-Breaking Career at Real Betis
4. Struggles at Barcelona and Loan Spells
5. Late Career and Retirement
6. International Career

Biography of Alfonso Perez

Alfonso Perez Munoz (born September 26, 1972, in Getafe) is a former Spanish footballer who played as a forward for clubs such as Real Madrid, Real Betis, Barcelona, Olympique Marseille, and the Spanish national team. He was also an Olympic champion in 1992.

Early Career and Success at Real Madrid

Alfonso turned professional in 1990 when he signed a contract with Real Madrid. In 1995, he played a crucial role in helping the team win the Spanish championship. However, Alfonso did not have a high scoring record for Real Madrid, which led to his transfer to Real Betis.

Record-Breaking Career at Real Betis

At Real Betis, Alfonso thrived as a forward and established himself as a prolific goal scorer. In his second season with the club, he set a club record by scoring 25 goals in the Spanish league. His impressive performances caught the attention of Barcelona, who signed him in 2000.

Struggles at Barcelona and Loan Spells

Alfonso's time at Barcelona did not go as planned, as he struggled to replicate his previous form. He scored only two goals in 21 matches for the club. In 2002, Barcelona loaned him to Marseille, and the following season, he returned to Real Betis on loan. In 2003, Betis secured his permanent transfer.

Late Career and Retirement

In June 2005, Alfonso's contract expired, and he decided to retire from professional football. Since November of that year, he has been playing for the Real Madrid veterans' team. In honor of his achievements, the football club Getafe named their home stadium "Alfonso Perez Coliseum" in 1998, even though Alfonso never played for his hometown team.

International Career

Alfonso represented the Spanish national team, earning 32 caps and scoring 11 goals. He made his debut in 1992 and played in the European Championships in 1996 and 2000, as well as the 1998 FIFA World Cup. His most memorable goal for Spain came during Euro 2000 against Yugoslavia. With Spain trailing 3-2 and on the verge of elimination, Alfonso scored a crucial goal in the dying seconds of the match, securing a 4-3 victory and keeping Spain's hopes alive in the tournament.