The new Kings League has drawn participation from both well-known football stars and a number of players who are less famous but highly motivated to make their mark.
The league’s distinctive format has attracted legendary players who have retired from top teams, alongside talents from smaller Spanish clubs who are eager to showcase themselves. With that in mind, it’s useful to note which players and former pros have competed and which teams they represented.
Which players and former professionals appeared in the Kings League in 2023 and the teams they joined
From a Ballon d’Or caliber presence like Ronaldinho to Javier Hernandez, known as Chicharito, and Alberto Bueno, the Kings League featured a wide array of talents and ex-players who raised the level of competition for the league.
Kun Agüero played for his own team
As a twelve-year-old, Sergio Kun Agüero led his own team, Kunisports, in several regular-season matches where he managed to score. An injury eventually limited his on-field time, but other games included teammates such as Augusto Fernández, a former midfielder for Celta de Vigo, Atlético de Madrid and Cádiz, and Javier Saviola. The squad also featured Ferran Corominas and Chica among others.
Chicharito Hernandez and Ronaldinho joined Ibai’s project
Javier Hernandez and Ronaldinho both signed as player twelve for their respective teams. Hernandez, the Mexican striker known for his time with Los Angeles Galaxy, stands as one of the most recognizable active players to participate, while the legendary Ronaldinho represented a symbol of football excellence for retirees who joined the league. Another player, Javier Espinosa, formerly of Almería, Elche and Villarreal, also participated with this team.
Casillas joins forces with Ricardo and Alberto Bueno
The strong friendships Iker Casillas built during his goalkeeping days helped recruit Ricardo from Osasuna and Manchester United, along with Alberto Bueno, a forward who played for Rayo Vallecano, Granada, Leganés and Porto, among others.
The team banners and on-field efforts have shown a consistent commitment. Each match has felt unique and memorable, contributing to the growing appeal of the Kings League.
We will see stronger showings as the competition continues. Stay tuned for more action from Split2. — 1K Football Club on social media.
De la Red and Sergio García part of the leadership for Mostoleta
Ruben de la Red, a former Real Madrid midfielder, and Sergio Garcia, who played for Espanyol, Betis and Zaragoza, contributed as player twelve to help Ultimate Móstoles secure leadership during the regular phase and support the team DjMaRiiO in their campaign.
Capdevila and the “Saiyans”
Joan Capdevila, European and World Champion with Spain, joined TheGrefg and his Saiyans to push toward the Kings League playoffs. Capdevila reportedly turned down Ibai’s offer to play for Porcinos, a decision that added intrigue when he later found the back of the net in the season’s opening game.
Joan Verdú with Los Troncos
Joan Verdú, a veteran who has worn the jerseys of Espanyol, Deportivo de La Coruña and Betis, displayed notable class in the Kings League, contributing steady quality through his participation with Los Troncos. Few have exploited the opportunity of this project as effectively as he has.
Lopo’s leadership with Pio FC
Albert Lopo, a commanding presence on the field during his Espanyol days, demonstrated leadership again with Pio FC, a team led by the popular Mexican content creator Rivers, confirming his ongoing influence on the pitch.
José Juan and El Barrio
Keeper Jose Juan, who continues to play in lower leagues with Athletic Club Torrellano in the Tercera División RFEF, gained recognition for a standout performance against Real Madrid during Alcoyano’s 2020-21 Copa del Rey run. He also carried El Barrio’s goalkeeping duties on social platforms.
Jonathan Soriano and the Jijantes team
Former striker for RB Salzburg, Espanyol, Barcelona B and Girona, Soriano played for Jijantes, led by Gerard Romero. Despite the team finishing bottom of the group, his presence underscored the league’s appeal. Ibai Gomeza, formerly of Alavés, Athletic Bilbao and Deportivo La Coruña, also contributed to the squad.
Didac Vila and the Espanyol connection
Didac Vila, the well-known Barça fan and former Espanyol left back who gained experience at Milan, joined the league through the project led by the presence of Dídac Vilà, adding depth to the roster.
Source: Goal