Real Madrid is one of the most prestigious football clubs in the world, with a rich history spanning over a century.
Founded in 1902, this Spanish giant has won numerous domestic and international titles, cementing its place as one of the greatest football clubs ever.
With a reputation for attracting top players from all over the world, it comes as no surprise that several English footballers have donned the famous white jersey of Real Madrid.
In this article, you will find out all the English football players who have played for Real Madrid, their contributions to the team, and their legacies at the club.
1. Laurie Cunningham
Laurie Cunningham was an English footballer who played as a winger. He was the second black player to represent England at any level and the first British player to transfer to Real Madrid.
Cunningham joined the Spanish giants in 1979 from West Bromwich Albion for a then club-record fee of 110 million pesetas (around £950,000).
During his time at Real Madrid, Cunningham quickly established himself as a fan favorite with his electrifying pace and dribbling skills.
He played a key role in helping Real Madrid win the La Liga title in his first season at the club, scoring eight goals in 31 appearances. He also helped the team reach the final of the European Cup, which they lost to Nottingham Forest.
Unfortunately, Cunningham’s second season at Real Madrid was marred by injuries, limiting his playing time and impact on the pitch. Despite this setback, he still managed to contribute to the team’s success, helping them win the Copa del Rey in 1980 and 1982.
In total, He played 62 matches and scored 19 goals for Real Madrid.
Cunningham’s legacy at Real Madrid is one of a trailblazer and a pioneer. He was the first British player to play for the club, paving the way for future British stars. His impact on Spanish football was significant, and he remains a beloved figure among Real Madrid fans to this day.
His life was tragically cut short when he died in a car accident in 1989, but his legacy at Real Madrid and beyond continues to inspire future generations of footballers.
2. Steve McManaman
Steve McManaman joined Real Madrid in 1999 from Liverpool on a free transfer. During his time at Real Madrid, McManaman helped the team win two Champions League titles, two La Liga titles, and one Intercontinental Cup.
He was the most successful English player to ever play for the club, and his impact on the team’s success during his time there cannot be understated.
After four years at the club, he was released and joined Manchester City afterward. He scored 14 goals in 158 appearances at Real Madrid.
3. David Beckham
He is obviously the most popular English player who played for Real Madrid. David Beckham played for Real Madrid from 2003 to 2007.
Beckham joined Spanish giants Real Madrid for €37 million on a four-year contract in 2003 after Manchester United had agreed to sell him to Madrid’s rivals, FC Barcelona.
He decided to wear the number 23 jersey at the club can win the Supercopa de España that year he joined.
During his time at the club, he also won the La Liga title in the 2006-2007 season, which was a major achievement for him.
In 2007, Beckham left Real Madrid to join LA Galaxy. He scored a total of 20 goals in 159 matches at Real Madrid.
David Beckham is also considered to be one of the best passers and best free-kick takers in football history.
4. Michael Owen
After impressing at Liverpool and England, Michael Owen signed for Real Madrid in the summer of 2004 for £8 million.
While at Real Madrid, Owen played alongside some of the greatest footballers of all time, including Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo.
Although Owen only spent one season at Real Madrid, he was able to contribute significantly to the team’s success.
He scored 16 goals in 45 appearances, helping Real Madrid win the Spanish Super Cup and the La Liga title in the 2004-2005 season.
5. Jonathan Woodgate
Jonathan Woodgate was an English professional footballer who played as a center-back.
He signed for Real Madrid in August 2004 for a fee of £13.4 million.
Unfortunately, Woodgate’s time at Real Madrid was plagued by injuries, and he only played 14 games for the club during his time there.
He made his debut for Real Madrid in September 2005 in a Copa del Rey match against Athletico Bilbao, which turned out to be a disastrous debut. After scoring an own goal, he then received a red card, which led to Real Madrid’s exit from the competition.
On his first appearance for Real Madrid in European competition, he scored his only goal for the club by heading in the equalizer in the 4-1 UEFA Champions League victory over Rosenborg BK on October 19th.
Despite his injury struggles, Woodgate was part of the Real Madrid squad that won the La Liga title in the 2006-2007 season.
In the future, many other English football players will most likely play for Real Madrid. The likes of Jude Bellingham, Reece James, and Harry Kane have been strongly linked to joining the club.
