The big names of the Galician Derby

A derby is much more than just a football game, it's a clash full of feelings and passion on the part of the fans. Over the years, hundreds of players have played this match between RC Deportivo and RC Celta, a so important game in Galicia. We must remember many names that have marked the history of both teams.

Fran Gonzalez, Turu Flores or Djalminha are not-too-distant examples of historical Deportivo players. All of them staged some of the most historic moments of the Galician derby. Fran could not score against Celta in the 25 times he faced the “Celeste” team. Instead, for Turu Flores eight derbies were enough to score five goals to his neighbor. The Argentine was a specialist against the team from Vigo, like the Brazilian Djalminha. Another of the most iconic names of Deportivo is Juan Carlos Valerón, who played a total of ten derbies, eight in Liga BBVA and two in Liga Adelante.

Celta has not lacked of proper names in its history neither. Alexander Mostovoi played twelve derbies, one more than his fellow countryman Valery Karpin, another "Celeste" who enjoyed every time he had Deportivo in front. Míchel Salgado, who took part in eight games was also an expert in the Galician clashes. Vlado Gudelj, current Celta´s delegate, added nine derbies during his stay in the "Celeste" team. Nor should we forget names such as Gustavo Lopez, who played for eight years in Celta and was one of the most loved by the fans.

Victor Sanchez del Amo and Eduardo Berizzo are another two protagonists of the Galician derby. It will be the first time they face each other from the bench, but not on the field, because as a players they faced four times, leaving better taste to the Madrid coach, who scored three goals.

The Xunta de Galicia has starred during these days the Galician derby of the season, after presenting a commercial to unite both clubs in the days before the match. ''Imposible sen ti'' is the name given to the ad that has captured the eyes of "Celestes" and "Blanquiazules".