There aren't many profiles like his. Former Real Madrid footballer, successful musician, and now one of the most respected voices in sports media. Álvaro Benito has lived three lives in one, shining in all of them.
From his debut on the microphones of Cadena SER, through his accurate analyses on Movistar+, and his regular collaboration with the newspaper As, he has earned widespread respect. However, there could be an unexpected twist in his professional life.
He was once one of the great prospects from the white academy and had to leave soccer prematurely because of injuries. From there, he moved to the stage with his band Pignoise, later returning to the king of sports as a commentator.
Since then, he hasn't stopped growing in the studios. Now he has issued a serious warning: if he receives a call from professional soccer, he would leave television without a second thought.
"If a top-flight team calls me, I'll leave TV"
Álvaro Benito has given an interview to El Mundo in which he has been clear and direct. When asked if he would leave his role as a commentator to coach a professional team, he doesn't hesitate:
"It depends on who calls me. But if a top-flight team calls me, I don't hesitate. I'm leaving."
The statement hasn't gone unnoticed. Although he has spent years linked to the media, Benito still has soccer deep inside.
In the past, he already coached Real Madrid's youth team, but a controversy over critical statements cost him the position. Even so, he has never hidden that his true calling is the bench.
"What I like is coaching. It's what excites me and what gives me professional meaning," he admitted.
One of the best analysts in the country
His level as a commentator is indisputable. Social media usually highlight his tactical knowledge, his ability to read matches live, and his natural way of expressing himself.
Many consider him the best in his field. However, that doesn't seem to be enough.
Benito isn't in a hurry, but he doesn't hide either. If soccer calls him, he'll say goodbye to television. He would do it without resentment, but with the certainty that he's fulfilling his true passion.
"The day I return to the field will be because I really want to. That day could come at any moment," he warns.
Although he has succeeded in the media, Álvaro Benito has never stopped being a coach. He was just waiting for his opportunity.