This very special  match has been organized by the legendary Rainer Bonhof. He was a key player for both clubs during his playing career. He emphasises:“ A piece of my heart is in Valencia . On 2^nd of August, the two teams of my life will be there. The stadium will be packed. I was in Valencia in March 2025 and had contact with the Club, and in a short time, we reached an agreement. It’s going to be a spectacular match for both clubs and the fans,” said Rainer Bonhof on VCF Media Radio’s l’Informatiu regarding Valencia CF’s match against Borussia Mönchengladbach this Saturday, August 2, at 8:30 p.m., at Borussia Park. The former Valencia CF player, who won the 1979 Cup and the 1980 Cup Winners’ Cup with the Mestalla club , fondly remembers the friendships he made during his time at Valencia CF: “I’m always happy to be with my former teammates like Arias, Tendillo, Roberto Fernández, Felman, Botubot … they were always there for me. Success is also theirs. A title isn’t won alone, it’s won by the team. We formed a group during the centenary and we congratulated each other and stayed in touch. It’s a good memory when you return home.” 

A Transfer That Sparked Ambition

In summer 1978, Valencia CF paid around 60 million pesetas (equivalent to roughly €360,000) to bring Bonhof from Bundesliga powerhouse Borussia Mönchengladbach—a significant investment at the time. Though he had renewed with Gladbach, he had left the door open to move later—a move the club pursued after the 1978 World Cup.

Immediate Impact on and off the Pitch

Bonhof arrived as an established international star—champion of the 1974 World Cup with West Germany and renowned for his devastating free kicks and long throws. In his debut season, his technique, physical presence, and leadership transformed Valencia’s midfield into a European contender.

Iconic Moments and Titles

• 1979 Copa del Rey victory: Valencia upset Real Madrid in the final, buoyed by Bonhof’s midfield control and memorable performances alongside Mario Kempes.
• 1979 Copa del Rey quarterfinal comeback: Bonhof scored in the astonishing aggregate turnaround from 4–1 down to beat Barcelona at Mestalla—a match he recalled as unforgettable thanks to the stadium’s electric atmosphere.
• 1980 European Cup Winners’ Cup triumph: In the final against Arsenal in Brussels, Bonhof calmly converted Valencia’s penalty in the shootout as did Ricardo Arias… and the club lifted a European trophy once again,

Numbers & Legacy

Over just two seasons, Bonhof featured in 85 official matches, scoring 19 goals—including key goals in domestic and European cup competitions. Despite his short stay, he became a revered figure at Mestalla for both his performances and character.

Departure and Later Reflections

In May 1980, Bonhof bid farewell to Valencia, returning to professional football in Germany at Cologne to pursue a spot in the 1982 World Cup squad. Although he didn’t make the final selection, he later described the move back to Germany as a mistake, given how much he cherished his time in Valencia. He remains deeply connected to the club: visiting Valencia annually, staying close with former teammates, and reflecting fondly on his time in Spain. Though his stint was brief, Bonhof’s contribution to Valencia CF’s rise was decisive. His two trophies and several match-winning performances cemented his place in the club’s history—and in the hearts of its supporters.

Report by Will McCarthy

Article copyright ‘24/7 Valencia’

Photo ‘Ricardo Arias with Rainer Bonhof at Mestalla’