Gianluca Zambrotta chose Barcelona over Real Madrid in 2006

Former Barcelona defender Gianluca Zambrotta disclosed that he turned down a move to Real Madrid in 2006, despite interest from manager Fabio Capello. He stated that Barcelona's sporting project and the opportunity to compete in new tournaments were key factors in his decision. During the 2006 World Cup, after the Calciopoli scandal, Zambrotta considered his options before opting for Barcelona, where he played for two seasons. Capello sought to bolster the Madrid squad with Zambrotta as part of a larger recruitment effort.

• 8:10 AMYahoo Sports — Former Barcelona defender opens up on turning down Real Madrid in the past: ‘Capello wanted me to join him’