Ricardo López Felipe: Back In The Dugout
I had over 200 appearances for the club I loved. I had made over 300 appearances in the game I loved. I was graced with the opportunity to wear my national colours with pride and passion, albeit only twice.
Coming out of retirement in early 2013 was a decision I am thankful I could make. Asier [Riesgo] had suffered the unfortunate injury, but Osasuna came back to me. I have ongoing respect for the club, and it seems they have it for me.
Retiring for the second time was extremely tough, but I simply couldn't handle the demands of being a professional footballer. My family, my children, my wife. I loved them all so dearly, and while I lived the game, I couldn't choose both at the time. As third-choice 'keeper there was little to do besides train, and that is when I had to make the decision at Osasuna.
Of course, I had wild times elsewhere. Playing in front of 70,000 at the Theatres of Dreams was one of my finest moments, and I wish I could have done it more often. Atlético Madrid taught me well, and I was fortunate enough to play almost my whole career in my home country. However, Spain lacked something England had. Not rain, but the passion for the game evident on every face in the stadium, every fan on the street.
England is where the football lives. As I have always said, I don't quit football, football quits me. And I don't plan on giving up on the beautiful game.
Welcome!
First of all, welcome to my first story on FM Scout. I have read many stories now, and have found little segments of many stories I love, and may end up incorporating into my story. I have a passion for writing about football, and because of this my story may be more detailed, with my save running slower than many others here. However, I will try to entertain as I progress in my journey.I am Ricardo López Felipe, or simply Ricardo, and after a lengthy playing career as a goalkeeper, am taking a venture into management. I am unemployed, and starting in England, so let's see where my experience can take me. I hope you enjoy reading!
good luck!
