Rafael Van Der Vaart Calls Valencia’s Error Of Judgment.

Rafael van der Vaart, a former Real Madrid player, has discussed his career’s “worst error.”

When the Dutchman joined Ajax after passing through the renowned youth program of the club, he was hailed as one of the greatest prospects in European football.

He spent six years in Amsterdam before moving to Hamburg in 2005, where his popularity was still rising.

He was strongly connected with a transfer to Spain in 2007, however, after making hints that he wanted to play in La Liga.

Van der Vaart was looking for a way out, therefore Hamburg remained adamant about keeping hold of him despite interest from Los Blancos and Valencia.

In an effort to get out, he chose to give a contentious interview to Diario AS and pose for a photo while wearing a Valencia jersey.

As their captain returned to play and remained for the 2007–08 season, Van der Vaart was jeered by the Hamburg supporters in the aftermath.

His unsuccessful attempt to leave Hamburg remains in his thoughts, even though he ultimately made the transition to La Liga, joining Real Madrid in 2008 and going on to have a successful stint at Tottenham.