Brief history of British players in Spain

#3 David Beckham (Real Madrid – 2003-2007)

UEFA Champions League: Real Madrid v Arsenal

A man that needs no introduction, Beckham’s arrival at Real meant the end of Steve McManaman’s time there, as the Galactico project went into full gear. Initially destined to join Barcelona, he ended up joining a Madrid team that included the likes of Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo, Raul, Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos.

Despite having a star-studded team, they fell below expectations, with Beckham only winning one La Liga title and a Spanish Super Cup in his 4 seasons there. Although he performed well throughout, the constant changing of managers meant he was in and out of favour and it was only in his final season under Fabio Capello that he played a key role, helping them win La Liga title. In total he made 116 appearances, scoring 13 goals and contributing 33 assists, with no shortage of his trademark free kicks.

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A notable absentee would include Michael Owen who, although a prolific goalscorer in his prime, didn’t have a huge impact in his one season at Real Madrid, although he did have the best goal per minute ratio in La Liga that season. Jonathan Woodgate had a disastrous spell at Real, one which will be remembered more for his own goals than defensive solidity.

Bale is now probably a Real Madrid legend already, with his 4 Champions League titles and an impressive 88 goals in 189 appearances, and certainly already merits a place on this list, but it remains to be seen whether or not he’ll be able to lead Real's attack in the post-Ronaldo era. As long as he avoids injury, I wouldn't bet against him.