Adrián Alonso Pereira, commonly known as Pola, born on June 26, 1988, in Vigo, will bid farewell to futsal on June 30. The Galician player shared an emotional video titled “The Last Retreat” on his social media platforms. In less than two minutes, he reflects on two decades of successes. Including 2 UEFA Futsal Champions League titles, 6 League victories, 5 Spanish Cups, 6 Spanish Super Cups, and 2 SM El Rey Cup triumphs. Totaling 21 club titles. Additionally, he proudly mentions his achievements with the Spanish National Team, including a European Under-21 Championship in 2007 and a European Championship in 2016.
“I leave with my head held high, feeling content, happy, and free of regrets,” he expressed upon announcing his retirement at the end of the season. “To all those who have been part of this journey, I have something to share.”
The journey unfolds in an audiovisual masterpiece. Crafted by the talented Compostela director, Jairo Iglesias, recipient of two Mestre Mateo awards from the Galician Audiovisual Academy, whom Pola met during his tenure at Santiago Futsal. Pola’s wife, Paula Torrado, also contributed her ideas to the project.
Beyond the accolades, Pola, at the age of 36, bids adieu as a legend, leaving behind a legacy defined by resilience, character, and unwavering dedication. Fondly referred to as the ‘Celtic warrior,’ he exits the stage amidst the respect and admiration of rivals and teammates garnered over his illustrious 20-year career. Filled with triumphs and trials.
Want to be a goalkeeper
Unlike many youngsters, Pola was not initially drawn to football. At the age of ten, he found himself captivated by indoor soccer matches on television. Despite idolizing Paulo ‘Maravilla’ Roberto, he aspired to become a goalkeeper. Fate intervened as he found himself on a team in Vigo with an abundance of goalkeepers. Leading him to hone his skills as a field player. Sporting his unmistakable blonde hair, he traversed the courts of the Vigo neighborhood of Coia alongside his older brother. Until childhood friends Dani and David bestowed upon him the moniker ‘Polaco,’ which eventually evolved into ‘Pola,’ a name that accompanied him throughout his remarkable journey, commencing in Redondela, playing in the National Youth League.
At 17, Pola joined Santiago Futsal, under the guidance of coaches Santi Valladares and José Venancio López. His debut in the First Division on September 24, 2005, against Móstoles. It saw him unexpectedly score a goal against Paco Sedano at the El Soto Pavilion. This marked the beginning of his journey. Where he not only clinched a Spanish Cup and a Spanish Super Cup but also cultivated the competitive spirit, adaptability, and resilience that defined his career.
Movistar Inter
Amidst a constellation of stars and a brief stint on loan to Second Division, Pola found his niche. In 2011, at the age of 22, he embarked on a transformative decade with Movistar Inter, surrounded by eminent figures like Ricardinho, Gadeia, Ortiz, and Daniel Shiraishi. His style evolved from a balancing winger to a relentless finisher, earning accolades and admiration from fans and peers alike. Notably, his defining moment came in 2017 when he secured a Spanish Cup for Movistar Inter against ElPozo Murcia. Showcasing his prowess even from the penalty spot.
Pola’s contributions extended beyond the court, as he became the second Galician player to represent his country in a futsal World Cup. He received accolades, including being twice named the best athlete in Vigo, and a heartfelt tribute from his beloved Celtic club in Balaídos after winning the 2016 Euro Cup.
Injuries
Injuries punctuated his journey, yet he persevered, using his recovery periods to pursue academic endeavors, including a degree in physiotherapy. Despite facing uncertainty, Pola’s indomitable spirit led him to new challenges. Including stints in the Portuguese Placard League with Braga and the Italian Serie A with Sandro Abate.
His return to Movistar Inter in 2023, albeit brief, underscored his unwavering passion for the sport. Now, with the Noia Portus Apostoli, guided by his mentors José Venancio López and Tomás de Dios, Pola continues to defy odds, determined to leave a golden mark on his illustrious career.
As he braces for the final stretch with his childhood comrade David Palmas by his side, Pola remains undeterred, poised to confront the challenges ahead. With fate aligning the last match of the regular phase against Movistar Inter, Pola’s legacy stands as a testament to perseverance, passion, and unwavering dedication, transcending the boundaries of the sport he so dearly loves.
