Former England footballer, Graeme Le Saux, is set to achieve a major milestone in his coaching career as he leads Real Mallorca in their quest for Spanish Cup success. The 55-year-old, who was a prominent figure in English football playing for Chelsea and Blackburn, will be present in Seville as Real Mallorca takes on Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final. This is a significant moment for the team, as their last victory in this prestigious competition dates back to 2003.
Le Saux’s involvement with Real Mallorca began in 2017 when he took on the role of a non-executive director. Prior to that, he had been advising the ownership group, which includes former NBA star Steve Nash, on sporting matters. Although he does not attend every league fixture, Le Saux has developed a strong bond with the Mediterranean island over the years.
Within the club, Le Saux acts as a vital link between the board, ownership, and the sporting side. His responsibilities include providing advice, assisting with negotiations, and supporting the club in various aspects of its business and culture. This demonstrates the trust and respect that the club has for Le Saux’s football expertise and his ability to contribute to its success.
Interestingly, Le Saux faced Real Mallorca as a player in the 1999 European Cup-Winners’ Cup semi-finals when he was representing Chelsea. Unfortunately, his team suffered defeat, losing 2-1 on aggregate over two legs. However, this previous encounter adds an extra layer of significance to Le Saux’s current role as he seeks to guide Real Mallorca to victory in this year’s Spanish Cup final.
Throughout his playing career, Le Saux made a total of 312 appearances for Chelsea, where he initially came through the club’s academy. He also enjoyed success with Blackburn, winning the league title, and had a spell at Southampton, amassing 403 top-flight appearances. Furthermore, he earned 36 caps for the England national team and represented his country in the 1998 World Cup.
As the Spanish Cup final approaches, Graeme Le Saux’s journey with Real Mallorca represents a remarkable opportunity to secure his first major title as a coach. The underdog status of Real Mallorca, currently positioned 15th in La Liga, adds an element of excitement and anticipation to this momentous occasion. Whether they emerge victorious or not, Le Saux’s contributions to the club’s success and his dedication to its growth will undoubtedly be remembered and celebrated.