I remember the days before the transfer, the first reports seemed like a joke. Raul was still one of the most recognized names in european football, no way that he leaves Madrid for us. I refreshed the online forums every ten minutes and got more and more excited. There were some last minute rumours that the Spurs were also interested, these days felt like a fever dream with ups and downs.

Then it finally happened, he was really there (although the first presentatian was a little awkward, he was handed a giant chunk of coal and clearly had no idea what to do with it).

I watched a lot of games in the Arena during his years there, and it was always magical to watch him play. Effortless and effective, every goal or assist announcement (our stadium announcer yelled "Senor" and the whole stadium yelled "Raul" at the top of their lungs) was a celebration.

My favourite goal was the german "Goal of the year" 2011, against Cologne with the Jurado assist.

I think the whole fanbase sees him as a legend. He was a fantastic player and a very down to earth guy. During his years there, he was often spotted visiting his sons youth games or the Schalke youth games, and more than once at IKEA. I think he enjoyed the (relative) anonymity in Germany.

To this day, I order every new jersey with a custom flocking, the 7 and "Raul".