From Özil to Makelele: 15 Real Madrid stars to join Premier League clubs

Fulham's recent signings of Gonzalo García and César Palacios, both former Real Madrid players, have reignited the tradition of Real Madrid stars joining Premier League clubs. Over the past three decades, numerous high-profile players have made the switch, resulting in memorable success stories and some disappointing outcomes. This article explores 15 of the most notable Real Madrid players who have made the transition to the Premier League.

Some of the most successful transfers include Mesut Özil, who played a pivotal role in Arsenal's three FA Cup victories and helped them win the 2014-15 Premier League title. Claude Makelele, who became the cornerstone of José Mourinho's Chelsea side, guiding the team to two Premier League titles, two League Cups, and the FA Cup. In recent years, Arsenal's Vinícius Júnior emerged as a potential candidate for a move from Real Madrid, completing the list at 16 players.

Fulham's recent additions, Gonzalo García and César Palacios, have bolstered the team's squad. García, a 22-year-old striker, joined on a staggering £34 million deal after excelling in Real Madrid's academy and helping the club claim the UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles. Palacios, a 21-year-old attacking midfielder, arrived for £8.5 million after demonstrating his talent in Real Madrid's youth ranks.

These two players will now work with Fulham's former academy coach and current manager Álvaro Arbeloa, further solidifying the connection to Real Madrid's youth system.