Real Madrid legend Raul is set to take over as the new head coach of Real Oviedo following the dismissal of Julian Calero on Monday. The decision by Oviedo’s majority shareholders, the Pachuca Group, comes as the club seeks to drive its push for promotion back to Spain’s top flight.
Calero Dismissed After Short Tenure
Calero was relieved of his duties after leading the team for just 14 matches. He was originally appointed in June following Oviedo’s relegation from La Liga and held a contract running through June 30, 2027. Despite a 2-1 victory over Cadiz on Saturday that left Oviedo ninth in the league table, the club decided to part ways with the manager.
In an official statement released on Monday morning, Real Oviedo confirmed the termination of Calero’s contract along with his coaching staff. The club expressed its gratitude to Calero and his staff for their hard work, professionalism, and dedication, wishing them success in their future careers.
New Coaching Chapter for Raul
The appointment marks the 49-year-old Raul’s first managerial role at the senior first-team level. The former striker enjoyed a storied playing career, making a record 741 appearances across all competitions for Real Madrid before featuring for Schalke, Al Sadd, and the New York Cosmos.
After retiring as a player, Raul moved into coaching with Real Madrid’s reserve team, Real Madrid Castilla. He guided the reserve squad to the play-offs twice before stepping down in 2025 when Xabi Alonso was appointed head coach of Real Madrid’s senior team.
Raul will replace Calero immediately and is expected to make his managerial debut on the bench this Saturday, when Real Oviedo host Girona.
