The rebirth of Deportivo La Coruna
Irueta was a meticulous, composed coach who adapted his tactics based on each opponent, but demanded defensive discipline and midfield control. He also carefully picked signings that would fit his philosophy, many of whom emerged as cult heroes, including Diego Tristan, Roy Makaay, Juan Carlos Valeron, Joan Capdevilla, and Jorge Andrade.
He also improved several established names, from Naybet to Brazilian attacking midfielder Djalminha, and Deportivo became one of the most feared sides on the continent. It was a gradual process, though.
Deportivo finished sixth in La Liga in Irueta’s first year at the helm, 16 points behind champions Barcelona. They were not consistent enough to launch a title challenge or qualify for the Champions League, but did get back into the UEFA Cup, and Irueta implemented a 4-2-3-1 formation that provided a platform for stability.
Ahead of the 1999-2000 season, Irueta brought in six new signings, including Makaay from Tenerife for €8.6 million, and Racing Santander winger Victor Sanchez for €7.6m. Those two players were especially vital to Deportivo reaching the next level.
Los Herculinos only improved on their 1998-99 points tally by six points, but that was enough for them to win La Liga after one of the most open races in the competition’s history, with Barcelona, Valencia, Real Zaragoza and Real Madrid all in the mix. Barca pushed Depor closest, but could only draw their final two games, and Irueta’s side clinched the title after a final day victory over Espanyol.
Ruthless Dutch striker Makaay was the hero after firing 22 goals, but Djalminha and Sanchez provided top quality support in attack, Maurco Silva and Flavio Conceicao were colossal in the double pivot, and Donato led by example at the back.
“We have completed the work of the 1994 team,” Irureta declared after the title was secured.
