According to Diario Sport, Casillas recalled his simple childhood in Mostoles and the support of his family.
In an interview with Weekend XL, the former goalkeeper described his home, which is only 60 square meters, where every expense is carefully calculated, and where every achievement of the family is the result of tremendous effort. Casillas proudly stated, "I'm not ashamed of living in Mostoles or driving a SEAT 124. I'm proud of my background."
The former player also recounted the crucial role his parents played in his education and his rise to the top. His father, José Luis Casillas, came from a small town in Ávila, worked as a policeman, and twice applied for transfers to the Basque Country to increase his income with local subsidies.
Iker Casillas during his childhood
His mother, Maria del Carmen Fernandez, was a housewife who also learned hairdressing, bringing stability and support to this labor-based family. Casillas recalled, "My father was paid a policeman's salary, and my mother was a housewife, but she later learned hairdressing." Iker and his brother Unai's names are also related to their family history: both were born during the time when their family lived in Bilbao.
In one of the most heartwarming anecdotes, Casillas shared his mother's clever way of persuading him to eat when he was a child.
Iker Casillas during his childhood
As a child, Iker was a huge fan of his goalkeeping idol, Luis Alkonda. His mother would often tell him, "Alkonda eats fish," to encourage him to finish his meal. This warm and playful little detail nurtured the boy who was already dreaming of his future goalkeeping career.
Casillas joined Real Madrid's youth academy at the age of nine, but his path to fame was far from glamorous. Before lifting the World Cup in Johannesburg and becoming one of the most important symbols of Spanish football, he was just an ordinary kid in a neighborhood, growing up in simple daily life, continuous hard work, and the unconditional support of his parents.
Iker Casillas during his childhood
This family story is filled with relocation, sacrifice, and a complete commitment to the young goalkeeper's future. His father put aside his own plans to accompany him to training and matches, while his mother supported the family and the children's education.
Years after retiring, Casillas returned to Real Madrid's youth academy to share with young goalkeepers the experiences that made him a legend. His attitude was clear: success comes from hard work, perseverance, and a foundation that must never be forgotten.
