Esteban Granero's versatility makes him a player that all team's
wish to have. He can play as an attacking midfielder or along either flank. An
offensive-minded player, Granero is a creative workhorse who has a powerful
kick. Granero first suited up for Real Madrid with the Under-10 squad; a
division he would score 83 goals in. The years passed by and Granero continued
to improve. In 1999 he captained the Under-14 team that won the International
Football Seven Tournament in Barcelona. Granero scored the game-winner and was
named Best Player of the championship.
At the age of 17, Granero joined Real Madrid C and was soon the
center of attention of not just the team, but of Real Madrid Castilla coach
Michel, as well. In December of 2005/06 he debuted with the 'B' team against
Albacete and finished the match with a goal assist. That same season he went on
to win the Under-19 European Championship in Poland.
The 2006/07 season saw Granero really step onto the scene. He had
earned the playing time and the opportunity to gain experience in Spain's top
flight, both of which were provided by Getafe. It didn't take long for Granero
to become the go-to guy on the team, and his arrival coincided with the best
run ever by the Azulones.
Personal
Granero's
passion for football extends well beyond the pitch. For several years now he
has coached a kids team at a school in the suburbs of Madrid.
Not
only does he like to teach, but Granero spends plenty of time studying as well.
He is still enrolled in university and studies psychology.
He
admires Maradona and Zidane, but most of all, Raul. He earned the nickname
"The Pirate" because of his ability to steal the ball. Any time he
scores, he now covers one eye with his hand as if it was an eye patch.
Honours
·
La
Liga: 2011/12
·
Copa
del Rey: 2011
·
Under-19
European Championship: 2006
·
Copa
del Rey runner-up: 2006/07
Career
·
Real
Madrid youth system (1995-2006)
·
Real
Madrid Castilla (2006-2007)
·
Getafe
(2007-2009)
·
Real
Madrid (2009-present)
Source : http://www.realmadrid.com
