Hayley Raso leaves Real Madrid

Above: Hayley Raso celebrates a goal for the Matildas. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

By Genevieve Henry (23.06.24).

Real Madrid have announced the departure of Hayley Raso after just one year at the club. The 29-year-old winger signed for the club last July, becoming the first Australian to do so.

During her time at Real Madrid, Raso played in 28 games but only started 10 of them. She still made an impression with 4 goals and 2 assists. She was also voted MVP in several games and made a name for herself not only in attack with goals but also all over the field with her important contributions in defense and build-up play.

Although Las Blancas finished second in Liga F, they still have a lot of catching up to do on league and European champions Barcelona. Many believed Raso would be a valuable signing for the team, but ultimately they were not given the tools to succeed.

In a post on Instagram, Raso thanked the club, her teammates, staff and fans for welcoming her and said what an honour it was to play for the Spanish giants.

She added: “I have learned throughout my career that football does not always work out the way we imagine and, due to the restrictions on the number of foreign players in Spain, it is time for me to move on to a new adventure.”

Raso is just one of many players leaving the club after a season of turmoil and uncertainty. If you look at Real Madrid’s Instagram, all you see are “Gracias” graphics. Other departures include Sofie Svava, Claudia Zornoza and captain Ivana Andres. Many fans are calling for a change in the club’s management after a disappointing season domestically and in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Although Raso is currently not publicly linked to a club, it is likely that she will return to England or the USA – both leagues in which she has played for years.

Her fast, aggressive style was not exploited at Real Madrid, but hopefully the next club she plays for will know how to use her. After a few years at Manchester City before Real Madrid, without the playing time she wanted, Raso will be looking for a club that really values ​​her.

Although she doesn’t play as often as other players at the club, Raso is still an important player who shines for the Matildas despite the circumstances. After the Paris Olympics, Raso will hopefully move on to a club that can offer her the playing time and resources a player of her caliber deserves.

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