Last Monday, CD Leganés notified Martín Mantovani that it would not renew his contract after five seasons of success. Today, the player said goodbye in the press room of Butarque and was accompanied by CD Leganés president, Victoria Pavón.
He arrived at Leganés in Second Division B in the summer of 2013 from Real Oviedo. From the start he consolidated himself as one of the defensive pillars of the team, being a one of the first names on the teamsheets and standing out for his assurance and leadership. His character made him a fan favourite. No-nonsense defender, who was key during the two seasons in La Liga Adelante, scoring several decisive goals and becoming one of the best centre backs of the league. The captain made his debut in the First Division in 2016 and was key in Copa del Rey semifinals this year.
Victoria Pavón started by talking about Mantovani
"It is perhaps coincidence that Martín Mantovani came to Leganés. What none of us knew back then was he going to be the most carismatic player in the ninety years of Leganés history. He has won the love of fans, the respect of the city of Leganés and the world of football. He represent better than anyone the values of this club and the values of the sport. He wears number 5 but he is a ten as person. This is your house, Martín, you have the doors open for the day you decide to retire, there will be a place for you".
Mantovani began will a speech before taking questions from the press in a packed press room.
"It has been a beautiful cycle. I came here with 29 years in Segunda B. I become a profesional thanks to Lega in Segunda. We played in La Liga, something historic for the club. On a personal, family and professional level, they are the best memories and all thanks to Leganés", said Martín Mantovani about these five historical years.
He also spoke about the future captain: "We have important people in the dressing room, they are people who know Leganés and have experience in the world of football. They know of the responsibility of wearing the captain's armband. The best years of Leganés are yet to come."
He closed by saying: "I say goodbye to Leganés but I know that I will return."
