In the world of futsal, few stories are as compelling as that of Antonio Vadillo and Palma Futsal. Despite receiving an enticing offer from Benfica in mid-June, Vadillo remained committed to his current team, turning down the Portuguese club’s proposal. The potential move would have involved a termination clause of 60,000 euros, but Vadillo chose to stay with the team he considers his home.
Over the past 12 years, Vadillo has been integral to Palma Futsal’s success, first as a player for four years and then as a coach for eight. His tenure has been marked by remarkable achievements, including two consecutive UEFA Futsal Champions League titles and two Intercontinental Cups. Despite these international triumphs, Vadillo acknowledges a lingering national challenge – having not yet secured a major title in Spain.
The team’s recent performance speaks volumes about Vadillo’s leadership. After a challenging qualification process that included a nail-biting 3-3 draw against Poland’s Rekord, Palma Futsal has secured its third consecutive Final Four appearance. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, as no other team has managed to dominate the continental competition in this manner.
current season
The current season has been extraordinary, with the team establishing a new record of 22 unbeaten games in the UEFA Futsal Champions League. Vadillo takes pride in the team’s resilience, especially considering the significant player turnover each season. With only one defeat and two draws in the league, and having won the Intercontinental Cup, the team has exceeded even the coach’s optimistic expectations.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Final Four in early May, Palma Futsal will face tough competitors including Jimbee Cartagena, Kairat Almaty, and Sporting CP Portugal. Vadillo remains characteristically confident, challenging their opponents and expressing the team’s ambition to make history by becoming the first team to win three consecutive Champions League titles.
“We have earned the right to dream,” Vadillo stated, highlighting the team’s extraordinary journey and potential. His commitment to the club, his belief in the young squad, and their continuous ability to reinvent themselves make Palma Futsal a truly remarkable team in the world of futsal.
