Chapter 94: Shared Ownership
Convincing Pirri was a crucial first step, and now that José had his support, things became much easier.
When José and Pirri personally visited Samuel Eto'o, the Cameroonian forward didn't hesitate for long before agreeing to join Mallorca. One was the coach who had restored his confidence last season, and the other was the mentor who had brought him from Africa to Spain. With both of them inviting him, Eto'o would have considered the move even if things were going well at Real Madrid—let alone now, when he was struggling to get any playing time.
With Eto'o on board, the next step was negotiating with Real Madrid, which José handled personally. Madrid wasn't opposed to the idea of selling him—Eto'o had no place in their squad, and rather than letting him rot on the bench, they might as well make some money off of him.
The negotiations were led by Jorge Valdano, Real Madrid's newly appointed sporting director, a former Argentine international and one-time star striker who had played alongside Maradona. But as far as José was concerned, Valdano was much easier to deal with than Pirri.
After all, a decade later, another José—José Mourinho—would outmaneuver Valdano in Real Madrid's internal power struggles. José took that as a good omen.
"Mallorca and Real Madrid have done business before," Valdano said with a polite smile. "I believe we can keep the loan terms the same as last season. What do you think, Mr. José?"
You want us to keep developing your player for free? Not a chance.
José smiled and shook his head. "No, Mr. Valdano. This time, I'm here to buy Eto'o, not to take him on loan."
"A permanent transfer? I'm afraid that's not an option. Eto'o is still young, and we see him as an important part of our future strike force."