Pepe Reina the first goalkeeper to play in Europe's big four leagues

The Spaniard was named in the starting XI for Bayern against Werder Bremen on Saturday, setting a unique record in the process


Bayern Munich goalkeeper Pepe Reina became the first goalkeeper in history on Saturday to play in Europe’s biggest four leagues of Spain, England, Italy and Germany.

The 32-year-old was named in the Bayern starting XI for their clash against Werder Bremen at Weserstadion, his first Bundesliga appearance since joining the Bavarians in the summer.

Reina made over 100 appearances in La Liga at the start of his career with his first two clubs Barcelona and Villarreal.

He moved to Liverpool in 2005, and featured in 284 Premier League games over the course of eight seasons at Anfield.

A successful loan spell at Napoli followed last season where Reina played 29 times in Serie A, although the Azzurri could not afford to make the deal permanent.

Reina thus moved to Bayern on a free transfer last summer, but he has been understudy to first choice goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

The Spaniard was finally handed a chance to shine by coach Pep Guardiola against Bremen – allowing him to set a unique record of playing in La Liga, the Premier League, Serie A and the Bundesliga.

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