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Gianluca Zambrotta chose Barcelona over Real Madrid in 2006

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 8:10 AM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

Gianluca Zambrotta chose Barcelona over Real Madrid in 2006

Summary

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.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Zambrotta was sought after following the Calciopoli scandal.
•Fabio Capello wanted Zambrotta at Real Madrid.
•Zambrotta chose Barcelona for its sporting project.
•He played two seasons with Barcelona after joining in 2006.
•Barcelona was the reigning Champions League holder at the time.

Latest Updates

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

What they're saying

"
Former Barcelona defender Gianluca Zambrotta has revealed that he had the chance to join Real Madrid in 2006 but ultimately decided that Camp Nou was the right destination for the next chapter of his ...
— Yahoo Sports

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Barcelona Real Madrid Atletico Madrid Champions League Soccer