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Iker CasillasSpanish footballer, goalkeeper
Date of Birth: 20.05.1981
Country:  Spain |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Accolades and Achievements
- Real Madrid and Spanish National Team
- Early Training and Club Debut
- Champions League Triumph and Setbacks
- Redemption and the Zamora Trophy
- Extension and Club Loyalty
- Spectacular Saves and Global Recognition
- Spanish National Team Debut and Record
- Love Life and Marriage
- Health and Career Challenges
- Retirement and Legacy
Early Life and Career
Iker Casillas, a renowned Spanish footballer and goalkeeper, began his professional career at a young age. His exceptional skills garnered him recognition as one of Europe's top goalkeepers within a short span of time.
Accolades and Achievements
Casillas has received numerous prestigious awards, including the 2008 European Footballer of the Year (fourth place), 2009 UEFA Goalkeeper of the Year, and a spot on the UEFA Team of the Year thrice in a row.
Real Madrid and Spanish National Team
At Real Madrid, Casillas established himself as the team's captain and one of the greatest goalkeepers in the club's history. He led the Spanish national team to their first European Championship victory in 44 years.
Early Training and Club Debut
Casillas' training at Real Madrid began at the youth level in 1990-1991. He made his senior team debut on November 27th, 1997, at the age of 16. After a year of waiting, he became the team's starting goalkeeper.
Champions League Triumph and Setbacks
In 2000, Casillas became the youngest goalkeeper to ever play in a Champions League final, where Real Madrid defeated Valencia 3-0 shortly after his 19th birthday. However, the following season brought setbacks, leading to his temporary replacement by César Sánchez.
Redemption and the Zamora Trophy
Casillas' redemption came in the 2002 Champions League final. When Sánchez was injured, Casillas entered the game and made several spectacular saves against Bayer Leverkusen. In 2007-2008, Casillas helped Real Madrid win their 31st La Liga title, earning the Zamora Trophy for conceding only 32 goals in 36 games.
Extension and Club Loyalty
Casillas extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2017 in 2008. Despite rumors linking him to various European clubs, he remained loyal to his boyhood team.
Spectacular Saves and Global Recognition
In a 2009 match against Sevilla, Casillas made an extraordinary save, covering the length of the goal and denying Diego Perotti from point-blank range. His reflexes were praised by teammates and former England goalkeeper Gordon Banks.
Spanish National Team Debut and Record
Casillas made his Spanish national team debut at under-17 level. One of his most memorable saves came at the 2002 World Cup quarterfinal against South Korea, earning him a spot among the top ten saves ever.
Love Life and Marriage
In 2009, Casillas met Sara Carbonero, a sports reporter and model. After initial hesitation, Carbonero accepted his advances and they began dating. The couple had two sons, Martín and Lucas, and married in a private ceremony in 2016.
Health and Career Challenges
In 2019, Casillas suffered a heart attack during training and underwent surgery. Despite initial concerns, he returned to training and considered a role within the team's management.
Retirement and Legacy
In August 2020, Casillas officially announced his retirement from professional football. His decision was met with tributes from legendary figures like José Mourinho, Lionel Messi, and Gianluigi Buffon. Today, Casillas enjoys time with his family and friends, while remaining active on social media.
