Samuel Eto'o began his professional career with Real Madrid, but made only three appearances due to constant periods out on loan with a variety of clubs. He moved to Mallorca in the summer of 2000 and transformed himself into a club legend, becoming their leading all-time goalscorer (with a tally of 54) before interest from bigger clubs convinced him to leave. Ironically, Real were interested once more, but he spurned them in favour of Barcelona. At Barca, Eto'o showed his bitterness towards his old club, publicly mocking Los Blancos after his side beat them to the La Liga title in 2004/5. He later apologised and asked for forgiveness, which was rejected. His decision not to go back paid off in spades, however, as his trio of Champions League trophies will attest.
