Why I joined Real Betis over Real Madrid – Finidi

Super Eagles legend and 1994/95 Champions League winner recounts the reason he chose Real Betis over Real Madrid.

The legend, Finidi George was one of the high flying wingers when Ajax Amsterdam won the UEFA Champions League in 1994/95 because of his electric pace, trickery dribbles, pinpoint crosses and ridiculous stamina.

Finidi told SuperSport La Liga the reason he departed Ajax for Real Betis despite interest from Real Madrid as quoted by soccernetng

“After our Champions League final defeat to Juventus (in 1995/1996), the coach made it clear that they wanted to sell me and if even I stayed back at Ajax, that I was not going to play.

“At that time, Real Madrid were interested in signing me but as at that time, they didn’t have the kind of money that they have now,

“Real Betis then came with a good offer and I had to go. My stay there was memorable.

“At Real Betis, I scored in the final of the Copa del Rey the following season against Barcelona. Real Betis were defeated 2-3 by Barcelona after extra time.

“It was a big game. Real Betis did everything we could but it was not possible (to win). Barcelona had the edge, they had the experience.”

Finidi remains one of the most loved Real Betis player of all time and for every time he scored at home, a fan had a hat for him to put on.

Finidi George won three Eredivise titles, one Champions League with Ajax. He also won the Tunisia 94’ African Cup of Nations with Nigeria before finishing Runners-up in Ghana-Nigeria 2000 of the same competition.