Francesco Totti Tempted By Real Madrid

Roma legend Francesco Totti has revealed he was tempted to join Real Madrid in 2003 and says the Spanish club were desperate to sign him.

He told Corriere dello Sport: it was a very odd time between me and the club, as some things weren’t going the right way. I had asked for some specific things and they seemed to ignore my expectations.

“Real Madrid were pushing at all costs for me to come and play for them. It was the only club in the world that I would’ve, albeit with sadness in my heart, left Roma for.”

I did think about it very seriously. However, fortunately, my family, friends and wife helped me to understand many things and I remained here. I consider that a great thing.

“Would I have gone? I can say no now, but at that moment I was pretty decided. It wasn’t going to be leaving for a normal team, but for the best in the world.”

Totti even reveals he financially contributed to the club when the Sensi family was struggling to keep it afloat.

“It’s something not everyone knows, as I wanted to help the Sensi family for all they had done. I am happy it didn’t really hit the headlines or get talked about, because I did it for the team, the colours I always loved and for the Sensi family, who treated me like a son.

“In my view when there is respect, there is everything. They always respected me and I tried to give something back, for what I could.”