Alaves

Deportivo Alavés, based in the historic city of Vitoria-Gasteiz in the Basque Country, stands as a true example of resilience and passion in Spanish football. Founded in 1921, the club has endured both triumph and adversity, navigating the highs and lows of football with the unwavering support of its fans. Known for its spirited performances, particularly in recent decades, Alavés has carved out a unique identity within Spanish football.

This article delves into the history of Deportivo Alavés, examining its early beginnings, its rise through Spanish football, its most memorable achievements, key players, and managers, and its vision for the future. Alavés may not be one of the superpowers of Spanish football, but it is a club with a rich history and a bright future ahead.

The Foundation of Deportivo Alavés

The history of Deportivo Alavés dates back to its founding on January 23, 1921. The club began life in Vitoria-Gasteiz as a local team, initially competing in regional leagues before stepping up to higher levels of Spanish football. The early years of the club were marked by fluctuating performances, but Alavés showed promise and a growing ambition that would eventually take it to the top levels of Spanish football.

Despite the challenges faced by many smaller clubs, Alavés’ rise was rooted in the loyalty of its fanbase and the support of the local community. Football in the Basque Country has always been a crucial part of regional culture, and Deportivo Alavés quickly became a symbol of Vitoria-Gasteiz’s pride and passion for the sport.

Early Struggles and Rise to Prominence

In the first several decades of its existence, Alavés was primarily a club that competed in regional leagues. However, by the 1950s and 1960s, the club began to make a name for itself in the Spanish lower divisions. Alavés spent years building momentum, gradually improving its squad and gaining recognition in Spain’s footballing circles.

In 1954, Deportivo Alavés achieved promotion to Spain’s top-flight football division, La Liga. This was a major accomplishment for the club, marking the beginning of its journey into the elite ranks of Spanish football. While the team’s initial years in La Liga were difficult, with the club fighting relegation and struggling for consistency, it was evident that Alavés had the potential to compete with the best in Spain.

During this time, the club’s supporters remained loyal, and the team’s connection to the local community in Vitoria-Gasteiz grew stronger. The city, while not as large as other footballing hubs like Madrid or Barcelona, had an intense love for their local club. Alavés’ matches were a source of pride for the people of the Basque Country, and the club’s fortunes were tightly linked to the spirit of the city.

The Golden Years – Success in the Late 1990s and Early 2000s

The late 1990s and early 2000s marked a golden era for Deportivo Alavés. The club’s fortunes turned around dramatically during this period, culminating in one of the most memorable runs in the history of the club.

UEFA Cup Run and the 2001 Final

One of the most defining moments in the history of Deportivo Alavés came in the 2000-2001 season when the club reached the final of the UEFA Cup, now known as the Europa League. The team’s run to the final was a fairytale journey that captured the hearts of football fans across Europe. Alavés, under the management of Luis Fernández, defeated some of Europe’s most well-known clubs, showcasing their talent and resilience.

The final itself was an unforgettable match against Liverpool, a game that remains a poignant memory in the history of the club. Despite losing 5-4 in one of the most thrilling finals in European competition, Alavés’ performance was widely praised. The club’s attacking football, led by players such as Javi Moreno and Iván Alonso, captured the imagination of football fans everywhere. Alavés’ story was one of the underdog spirit, and despite their loss, they earned the respect of fans around the world.

This moment was particularly significant because it demonstrated that clubs from smaller cities could challenge the footballing elite. Alavés, with its smaller budget and less star-studded squad, showed that determination and passion could take a team far. Although they didn’t secure the trophy, their achievement was a source of immense pride for the club and its supporters.

Domestic Success and Struggles

Alongside their European adventure, Alavés had notable moments in domestic competitions. The club managed to finish high in La Liga and secured a spot in European competitions, further solidifying their place in Spain’s footballing hierarchy. However, as with most teams that experience success, Alavés was not immune to financial and managerial difficulties.

The club faced challenges maintaining its level of success, with a series of managerial changes, inconsistent performances, and relegation battles threatening to undo the progress made during the golden era. Nonetheless, Deportivo Alavés remained an important club in Spanish football, continuing to punch above its weight and providing competitive football in Spain’s top division.

Financial Troubles and Rebuilding Efforts

In the years following the club’s golden era, Alavés found itself in a period of financial instability. Like many smaller clubs in Europe, the club struggled with maintaining its financial health while competing in Spain’s highly competitive top division. As a result, Alavés found itself relegated from La Liga and had to fight its way back through the Segunda División.

This period of struggle saw the club having to rebuild, focusing on developing its youth academy and securing smart player acquisitions. Alavés invested in its infrastructure and worked to establish a strong foundation for the future, knowing that long-term success could only be built through solid financial management and careful squad development.

Mendizorrotza Stadium – The Heart of Alavés

No discussion of Deportivo Alavés would be complete without mentioning Mendizorrotza Stadium, the heart and soul of the club. Situated in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the stadium has witnessed countless memorable moments, from thrilling La Liga matches to historic European nights. With a capacity of around 19,000, Mendizorrotza is one of the smaller stadiums in La Liga but is known for its incredible atmosphere.

The fans, known as the “Babazorros,” are passionate and unwavering in their support of the team. The stadium’s compact nature creates an intimate and electric atmosphere that makes watching a game there a special experience. Over the years, Mendizorrotza has undergone renovations to improve facilities while preserving the stadium’s unique charm.

Notable Players and Managers in Alavés History

Over the years, Deportivo Alavés has been home to many notable players who have left their mark on the club. Some of these players achieved their greatest successes at Alavés, while others used the club as a stepping stone to bigger careers.

• Javi Moreno: A key figure in the club’s 2001 UEFA Cup run, Moreno was a clinical forward whose goals were crucial to Alavés’ success. His ability to score under pressure made him a fan favorite and a vital part of the club’s attack during their golden years.

• Iván Alonso: The powerful striker was another important player for Alavés in the early 2000s. His contributions in both domestic and European competitions made him a key figure during the club’s most successful period.

• Aritz Aduriz: Although Aduriz is best known for his time at Athletic Bilbao, he started his career at Alavés. His stint at the club helped him develop into one of Spain’s top forwards.

• Manuel Pellegrini: The Chilean manager, who is now known for his success with teams like Manchester City, had a brief but impactful spell at Alavés. Pellegrini’s tactical acumen helped the team navigate the challenges of La Liga and European football during his tenure.

Alavés Today – A Club in Transition

In recent years, Deportivo Alavés has faced the challenge of staying competitive in La Liga while managing its financial and sporting resources. The club’s focus has shifted towards building a solid foundation for the future, with an emphasis on nurturing young talent through the academy and scouting future stars from around the world.

Despite facing relegation battles, Alavés has continued to compete in Spain’s top division. The club’s management, led by various coaches, is determined to stabilize the team’s position in La Liga while also striving for higher finishes.

The Future of Deportivo Alavés

Looking to the future, Deportivo Alavés is focused on long-term success rather than short-term glory. The club’s strategy includes improving its squad depth, enhancing its youth development program, and securing a sustainable financial model. With a strong fan base, a history of producing talent, and a commitment to the future, Alavés is positioned to continue its growth within Spanish football.

The club’s future is bright, and the passion of the Babazorros will always be a driving force in ensuring that Deportivo Alavés remains a competitive and respected name in La Liga.

Conclusion

Deportivo Alavés may not have the same fame or resources as the biggest clubs in Spain, but it is a club with a rich history, passionate supporters, and a deep connection to its community. From their dramatic UEFA Cup run in 2001 to their ongoing fight for survival and success in La Liga, Alavés embodies the spirit of resilience that defines smaller clubs in European football.

With a bright future ahead, Deportivo Alavés is a club that continues to inspire, and its journey will undoubtedly captivate fans for years to come.