‘I turned down Real Madrid for Arsenal– it was the best decision I ever made’

Lauren, whose full name is Laureano Bisan-Etame Mayer, has shared that his decision to turn down an offer from Real Madrid in favor of joining Arsenal in 2000 was one of the best choices he ever made in his career. Known for his solid performances as a right-back, Lauren’s career began in his native Spain before making significant strides in football. His journey saw him rise through the ranks at Utrera, before joining Sevilla’s B team, Levante, and eventually Mallorca, where he truly caught the attention of top European clubs with an impressive season. This stellar performance led to interest from several prestigious clubs, most notably Real Madrid and Roma, but Lauren ultimately chose to join Arsenal for a £500,000 fee.

Looking back at the decision, Lauren shared with the Daily Mail in 2020 the process behind his choice and why he turned down Madrid in favor of Highbury. Initially, his representatives had gone to Madrid to meet with club officials, but after the discussions, they were not satisfied with the economic terms that were offered. The negotiations fell through, and instead of continuing in Spain, Lauren and his agent flew to London, where Arsenal had also made contact with the player. Upon their arrival, they were welcomed by David Dein, then Arsenal’s vice-chairman, at his home.

Lauren recalled that the informal atmosphere of the meeting, with David Dein hosting them in his home, left a lasting impression on him. It was a stark contrast to the formal, business-like atmosphere he had encountered in previous negotiations, such as those with Real Madrid. Dein’s welcoming nature and the warmth shown by Arsène Wenger, Arsenal’s manager at the time, were key factors in Lauren’s decision. Wenger, with his approachable and humble personality, spoke little during the talks, instead focusing on observing Lauren to see if he had the right character and mentality to succeed at a club like Arsenal. This approach was far more appealing to the Cameroonian right-back than the rigid and authoritarian atmosphere he felt in Madrid.

Lauren also admitted that, while he had been a Madrid fan in his youth, his decision to turn down the club came down to a matter of comfort and fit. Real Madrid, he noted, had a very strict way of doing things, with little room for flexibility. On the other hand, Arsenal offered him a chance to be part of a team where the atmosphere seemed more supportive, with both Wenger and Dein offering him the best possible terms. “You go to the place where they treat you best and where they offer you the best terms,” Lauren reflected.

Once he made his decision, Lauren was convinced that he had made the right choice. His move to Arsenal saw him become an integral part of the team under Wenger, where he played for seven successful years. During his time at the club, he was part of one of the most iconic teams in Premier League history—the 2003/2004 “Invincibles,” a squad that famously went the entire league season unbeaten. Lauren’s performances at right-back were pivotal to that success, and he featured in 32 games during that unforgettable campaign.

In addition to the Premier League title, Lauren also lifted three FA Cups and two Community Shields with Arsenal, further solidifying his place in the club’s history. The player’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively made him a key part of Wenger’s system. His attacking runs and support down the right flank were vital to Arsenal’s success during these years.

Looking back, Lauren expressed that his decision to join Arsenal had shaped his career in ways that playing for Real Madrid might not have. At Arsenal, he felt like a crucial part of a team that valued both his playing ability and his character. Wenger, who was highly regarded by Lauren, created an environment where young players could thrive and develop to their full potential. The manager’s leadership, which combined footballing knowledge with a strong sense of humanity, helped Lauren and many of his teammates reach new heights in their careers.

Reflecting on his time with Arsenal, Lauren said without hesitation that his decision to join the club over Real Madrid was the best decision of his career. Despite the lure of playing alongside legendary figures at Madrid, such as Iker Casillas, Roberto Carlos, and Raúl González, Lauren believed that his time at Arsenal provided him with a level of fulfillment and success that was incomparable. Not only did he experience tremendous achievements on the field, but he also had the opportunity to play in one of the most beloved and respected football institutions in the world.

After leaving Arsenal in 2007, Lauren continued his career at Portsmouth, where he played until his retirement in 2010. Although his time at Portsmouth was brief, it allowed him to continue playing at a high level before hanging up his boots. A short stint at Córdoba followed, but after his retirement, Lauren’s legacy as one of Arsenal’s finest right-backs remained intact.

Throughout his career, Lauren’s decision to reject Real Madrid was often discussed, particularly when fans and pundits looked at what might have been if he had chosen the Spanish giants. However, Lauren himself is clear that his move to Arsenal was the best choice for him personally and professionally. The relationships he built at Highbury, the success he enjoyed with the team, and the values instilled in him by Wenger and Dein made Arsenal the right club for him.

Lauren’s story is a reminder that success in football is not just about playing for the biggest or most glamorous clubs; it’s also about finding a place where you can develop as a player and as a person. While Real Madrid may have been an attractive option, Arsenal provided the right environment for Lauren to thrive, both on and off the pitch. His experiences with Wenger, Dein, and his teammates helped shape him into one of the most respected players of his generation. As he reflects on his career, Lauren knows that he made the right choice—one that led to incredible achievements and left a lasting legacy at one of the biggest clubs in English football.