Despite Ronaldo Nazário's plans to sell Real Valladolid, the mayor Jesús Julio Carnero has assured that work on key projects such as the redevelopment of José Zorrilla continues.

Estadio José Zorrilla in a nutshell

Estadio José Zorrilla was built in 1982 on the west bank of the Pisuerga River, replacing an earlier facility closer to the centre of Valladolid. Its construction was linked to the hosting of the 1982 World Cup, and the inaugural match was played less than three months before the start of the tournament. Originally, the stadium had a single ring of stands surrounding the pitch and higher stands along the east and west sides. It soon became the arena for the King's Cup final, although the airy structure earned it the somewhat ironic name Estadio de la Pulmonía (Lungitis Stadium).

In 1986, the stadium took its current form with the construction of the north stand, which housed as many as 120 commercial boxes, an impressive result with a capacity of 33,000 seats at the time. In 1995, as part of the adjustment to FIFA standards, the number of seats was reduced. Between 2012 and 2013, all the seats were replaced, creating a purple and white mosaic, characteristic of Real Valladolid.

In addition to the club's home matches, the stadium has hosted major sporting events such as World Cup group games, Spanish national team matches, Copa del Rey finals and major concerts by global stars including Michael Jackson.

© Real Valladolid

Why will the stadium undergo the modernisation?

The José Zorrilla Stadium has a rich history, but its design and standards are in line with those of a few decades ago. Modernising the facility could improve fan comfort and upgrade the infrastructure, but also increase its commercial potential. A modern stadium is an opportunity to attract more spectators, host bigger events and improve the image of the city and the club on the international stage. The redevelopment would enable Real Valladolid to go to the next level, both in terms of sport and business. All the more so as a major wave of stadium refurbishments is currently sweeping across the Iberian Peninsula.

Despite the turbulence surrounding the decision of Brazilian investor Ronaldo Nazario de Lima, Mayor Jesús Julio Carnero insists that the cooperation between the City Council and Real Valladolid remains smooth and constructive. Speaking to Europa Press, Carnero explained that the city's priority is to continue to work internally on projects that are crucial for the local community.

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The mayor of Valladolid pointed out that despite Ronaldo's announcement of his intention to sell the club, the cooperation between the city and Real Valladolid is going according to plan. It is true that he has publicly stated that he wants to sell Real Valladolid, which means that he will cease to act as an ambassador for the city. This is a reality that we have to accept, said Carnero. Work on the City of Sport and the modernisation of the José Zorrilla stadium is progressing internally and on schedule. We will continue to take the appropriate steps in the coming months the mayor added.

© Real Valladolid

Ronaldo's plans to sell the club and Valladolid's sporting situation

The two-time world champion, who has served as president and main shareholder of Real Valladolid since 2018, recently expressed his desire to sell the club. Carnero admitted that he is aware of some of the circumstances surrounding potential interested parties acquiring the club, but believes that this is a matter of a completely private character.

The mayor added that the reality will be what it has to be when the club decides to express it. The City Council, remains focused on the implementation of joint projects, clearly separating private issues from the public commitments of the city.

The mayor also drew attention to the difficult sporting situation of Real Valladolid, which is currently at the bottom of the La Liga table. The best solution is to allow the club, as a private entity, to concentrate on working in every area to regain a sporting pulse. This is fundamental for the future of Real Valladolid assessed Carnero.

He also pointed out that the challenges facing the club are not only in the sporting aspects, but also in the managerial aspects. As a member of the club, I can say that I am on the side of Real Valladolid he stressed.

© Angel Becerra Gende