Features
MIÉ 25.05.2016
The relationship between LaLiga and the New York Cosmos, one of the most illustrious American clubs, is far more extensive than it may seem on initial examination. The North American Soccer League (NASL) outfit, who are taking on SD Eibar on 25 May in Las Vegas as part of LaLiga World, has been, and still is, home to several players who have also plied their trade in the best league on the planet.
One of them is Raul Gonzalez Blanco, a true footballing great who is LaLiga's current country manager in the United States. The Spaniard brought his glorious career to an end at the Cosmos, following in the footsteps of other historic legends such as Pele, Franz Beckenbauer and former Barcelona star Johan Neeskens.
During the final season of Raul's goal-filled career, he shared the dressing room with Marcos Senna, another former LaLiga star. The midfielder, who played a pivotal role in Spain's Euro 2008 success, also hung up his boots in New York, after 11 successful seasons at Villarreal CF. Raul and Senna crowned their glittering careers by clinching the NASL with a 3-1 win over the Ottawa Fury in the 2015 final.
When Eibar measure themselves against the Cosmos, there will be many familiar faces on the pitch. The New York club boasts several players with LaLiga experience in their ranks: Juan Arango, the former RCD Mallorca midfielder; Ayoze Garcia, who enjoyed spells at CD Tenerife, UD Las Palmas and R. Sporting; and Roversio, the former At. Osasuna centre-back.
Remember you can find all the information you need on Eibar's LaLiga World tour here.
© LALIGA - 2016