Raúl González will bid farewell to Real Madrid Castilla after seven years at the helm of the club’s reserve team. His departure marks the end of a journey that began in 2019 and brought moments of promise, including the 2020 UEFA Youth League title, but also leaves behind a sense of bittersweet disappointment—the dream of coaching the first team remains unfulfilled.

The legendary 'Seven' has decided that Saturday’s final match against Alcoyano will be his last in charge. According to Relevo, Raúl has already communicated his decision to both his inner circle and the dressing room—a difficult choice, given his emotional bond with the club. However, with promotion hopes dashed once again and another opportunity to lead the senior team passing him by, the time felt right to move on.

Raúl had previously eyed the top job in 2021, after Zinedine Zidane’s departure, and again this summer, but neither opportunity materialized. Carlo Ancelotti was chosen in 2021, and now Xabi Alonso is set to take charge. Despite delivering an impressive 2025 season with just one defeat and narrowly missing the promotion playoffs, the door to the first team has remained firmly closed.

Raúl’s decision is tinged with frustration. His comments after beating Fuenlabrada—“Every day I feel more confident and ready for any challenge. And any challenge is any challenge”—were a clear message. He felt ready a year ago but stayed one more season to fight for promotion and keep his name in contention at the club.

Looking ahead, Raúl has had several strong offers on the table. Leeds United, Villarreal, and Schalke 04—the latter hoping to bring him back as the leader of a revival project—have all expressed interest. No final decision has been made, and Raúl will now take time to consider his next move.

As he prepares for his final training session at Valdebebas, and as Real Madrid determines the timing and manner of the official announcement, one thing is certain: Raúl’s era at La Fábrica is coming to a close. He leaves with respect, dignity, and an unwavering bond to the club of his life—even if his dream remains just out of reach.

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