After winning the World Cup, three Champions League winners’ medals and several league titles over an iconic 24-year career, Brazilian World Cup-winning left-back Roberto Carlos managed to beat the winter transfer deadline when signing for his latest club…. in the Shrewsbury & District Sunday Football League.
Establishing himself as the world’s best left back and one of the best players of his generation, the one-time ‘best left-back in the world’ will be turning out for Division One side Bull In The Barne United after the pub team – who represent the Bull In The Barne pub – entered and won eBay’s ‘dream transfer raffle’ which cost them just £5 to take part.
After signing the 48-year-old, manager and club goalkeeper, Ed Speller, said: “Most people thought I was playing an elaborate trick on everyone. No-one could really believe it.
“I thought it would be a good laugh to enter this raffle to win Roberto Carlo’s service. I thought nothing more of it, but then I was emailed to say I won a legend and one of the top players to ever play the game.
“We’re just an amateur pub team where everyone pays their own subs. To see a World Cup legend turning up at our ground with his boots in his hand, it makes me speechless to think that it actually happening.
“We’re all hoping he plays as many minutes as possible.”
Best known for his medal-laden 11 years at Real Madrid, Carlos is set to make a substitute appearance for the Bull In The Barne United. He says: “I’m excited to play for Bull In The Barne.
“It reminds me of when I nearly signed for Birmingham City in the 1990s. I just hope my training is enough to help the team up their game and bring what their fans want to see.”
“Everyone is buzzing about it and looking forward to getting the day going. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. He will bring with him a wealth of experience from the very top of the game and the Brazilian hopes he can make a difference when he steps out on the pitch for Bull In The Barne United.
The raffle and the game are in aid of Football Beyond Borders - set up to change the lives of young people who may be passionate about football but are not fulfilling their potential at school.
