Capello explains why Real Madrid legend had to leave: “He weighed 94 kilos and partied every night”

When Fabio Capello returned to Real Madrid in the summer of 2006, the club was desperate for a turnaround. After three trophyless years, newly elected president Ramón Calderón brought in the veteran Italian manager to restore glory to the Bernabéu. But Capello’s second stint in Madrid coincided with the twilight of the Galácticos era — a time when star power often overshadowed team chemistry.

That same summer, Real Madrid signed Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy from Manchester United, even though Brazilian legend Ronaldo was still on the roster. The decision set the stage for a dramatic shift in the locker room.

Fight for the right to party

Speaking from Italy years later, Capello didn’t hold back when reflecting on the situation:

“Ronaldo was the best player I ever coached. But he loved to party every night — he was wild. He weighed around 207 pounds and refused to slim down. At one point, I told the president we had to let him go. There was no way forward. So we did. But I’ll say it again: he was the best I’ve ever coached.”

Ronaldo eventually left Madrid during the January transfer window, heading to AC Milan in search of more playing time. Capello had made Van Nistelrooy his go-to striker, leaving the Brazilian icon sidelined.

Despite the internal drama, Real Madrid went on to win La Liga that season. Still, Calderón opted to part ways with Capello — a move that stunned many fans. By the following year, neither Capello nor Ronaldo remained at the club.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.