A double Champions League-winning ex-Real Madrid ace has signed for a second-tier team and was unveiled on a digital billboard.
Segunda División side Albacete revealed Jesús Vallejo was joining them.
The Spanish club issued an announcement inviting supporters to a spot in the city centre.
READ MORE: Ayton Senna’s old Porsche – which he also signed – selling for £56,000
- Advertisement -
It read: “This evening we’ve got an epic plan that’ll be talked about for a long time.”
Footage of the unveiling shows cheers and applause breaking out among the gathered crowd as Vallejo appeared on the billboard after a countdown.
Supporters could be heard chanting the centre-back’s surname, with one fan telling a reporter: “Honestly, I think it’s fantastic – absolutely amazing.
“I believe it’s going to be a great season, and he’s a player who will really take us to the next level.”
Pablo said: “Great presentation. Here’s hoping the lad has some good luck!”
- Advertisement -
When Vallejo, 28, makes his first appearance with Albacete next season, he will be the most decorated player ever to have worn the club’s shirt.
During his decade at Real Madrid from 2015 to 2025, he won two Champions Leagues, one La Liga title, three Super Cups, one Intercontinental Cup, two Club World Cups, one Copa del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups.
He also won the U19 and U21 European Championships once apiece with the Spanish national team, as reported by What’s The Jam.
- Advertisement -
Vallejo – from Zaragoza – spent most of his time at Real Madrid out on loan, including a season at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2019–20.
However, he managed to rack up one goal and one assist in 35 appearances for Los Blancos.
Many fans have fond memories of his late appearance against Manchester City in the 2022 Champions League semi-final, where he was a rock in defence.
Albacete said in a statement: “Last season, he once again wore the Real Madrid shirt, finishing his contract with the club last summer.
“Now he joins Alba bringing a wealth of experience despite his age, with a trophy cabinet that clearly shows he’ll be a huge help to the team’s growth, just as he continues to grow himself.
“Welcome home, Jesús!”
His new side play in the 17,524-capacity Estadio Carlos Belmonte stadium, compared to the 84,000 all-seater Bernabéu where Real Madrid play.
Albacete have only played in La Liga for seven seasons in their whole history and have only a handful of honours.
Madrid have won an astonishing 119 trophies – including a record 15 Champions League or European Cup titles – and are regarded as the best team in the world.
READ MORE: Tottenham ‘cashing in’ on failure by flogging self-deprecating humour T-shirts
