Victor Valdes, one of Barcelona’s most beloved goalkeepers, has returned to football after four years away. Valdes made 654 appearances during his 21-year career, keeping 275 clean sheets. A product of La Masia, Valdes was Barcelona’s goalkeeper during their three Champions League triumphs post-Johan Cruyff era, cementing his status as a club legend.

After retiring, Valdes ventured into coaching, initially managing an under-19 team near Madrid before returning to La Masia to train young goalkeepers. However, he left after three months due to disagreements with the club’s management and had been inactive in football since.

Spanish newspaper Sport reports that Valdes has been appointed as the new head coach of Real Avia, a team in Spain’s fourth division. Valdes attended his first training session today and was introduced to the players. With two games left in the season, Avia is on the verge of promotion, and Valdes hopes to lead them in the third division next season.