Above: Hayley Raso celebrates a goal for the Matildas. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
By Genevieve Henry (23/6/24).
Real Madrid have announced the departure of Hayley Raso after just one year with the club. The 29-year old winger signed for the club last July, becoming the first Australian, male or female, to do so.
During her time in Real Madrid colours, Raso played in 28 matches, but only started 10 of them. She still managed to make her impact, with 4 goals and 2 assists. She was also voted MVP in a few matches, making a name for herself not only in attack with goals, but all over the pitch with her important defensive contributions and build-up play.
Although Las Blancas finished second in Liga F, there is still much ground to be made up against league and European champions Barcelona. Many believed Raso would be a valuable acquisition for the side to do so, but she was ultimately not given the tools to succeed.
In a post on her Instagram, Raso thanked the club, her teammates, the staff, and the fans for welcoming her and what an honour it was to play for the Spanish giants.
She followed that up, commenting, “in saying that, I have learnt in my career that football doesn’t always work out the way we plan and due to the limit on foreign players in Spain, it’s time for me to move on to a new adventure.”
Raso is just one of many players departing the club after a season of turmoil and uncertainty. If one looks at Real Madrid’s Instagram, all they’ll see is “Gracias” graphics. Among the other departures are Sofie Svava, Claudia Zornoza, and captain Ivana Andres. Many fans are calling for a change in the club’s leadership after a disappointing season domestically and in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Although Raso is not publicly linked to any clubs at this time, it’s likely she is heading back to England or the United States, both leagues which she spent years in.
Her pacy, aggressive style was not taken advantage of at Real Madrid, but whichever club she next graces will hopefully know how to use her. After a few years, at Manchester City before Real Madrid, without the desired amount of playing time, Raso will be looking for a club that truly values her.
While she is not seeing the field as much as others in club land, Raso is still an important asset who has been shining for the Matildas despite the circumstances. After the Paris Olympics, Raso will hopefully be headed off to a club that can give her the playing time and resources a player of her calibre deserves.
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