by Club Deportivo Leganés, commonly known as CD Leganés, is a Spanish football club based in the city of Leganés, part of the Community of Madrid. Founded on June 23, 1928, the club has experienced a remarkable journey from the lower tiers of Spanish football to competing in La Liga, Spain’s premier football division.
Early Years and Formation (1928–1940s)
The club was officially established on June 23, 1928, by Félix Pérez de la Serna, continuing the project of C.D. Once Leones. The first president was Ramón del Hierro, and the team’s initial kit featured blue and white shorts. Early matches were held at the Campo de Tiro, but in the 1930s, the club relocated to a new field, now the site of Plaza de Roma. Operations were suspended in 1936 due to the Spanish Civil War, resuming on September 4, 1946.
Climbing the Lower Leagues (1950s–1980s)
For much of its early history, CD Leganés competed in the regional and lower national divisions. In 1977, the club achieved promotion to the Tercera División, then the third tier of Spanish football. This period marked the beginning of a steady ascent through the footballing ranks.
Rise to Segunda División (1990s)
The early 1990s were transformative for CD Leganés. In the 1992–93 season, under the guidance of coach Luis Ángel Duque, the team secured promotion to the Segunda División B. This success was a testament to the club’s growing ambition and development. Duque’s leadership was instrumental during this era, and he remains a celebrated figure in the club’s history.
Stability and Challenges (2000s)
The early 2000s presented both challenges and milestones for CD Leganés. The club faced financial difficulties, leading to a change in ownership on December 24, 2008, when Victoria Pavón and Felipe Moreno acquired a majority stake. Victoria Pavón assumed the presidency in July 2009, becoming a pivotal figure in stabilizing the club’s finances and laying the groundwork for future successes.
Ascent to La Liga (2010s)
The 2013–14 season was a turning point, as CD Leganés earned promotion to the Segunda División after a decade in Segunda B. Building on this momentum, the 2015–16 season saw the club achieve an unprecedented milestone: promotion to La Liga. This historic ascent was secured on June 4, 2016, with a 1–0 victory against CD Mirandés. The promotion marked CD Leganés as the fifth team from the Community of Madrid to compete in Spain’s top football division.
La Liga Tenure and Notable Achievements (2016–2020)
CD Leganés’ tenure in La Liga spanned four seasons, during which the club made significant strides. The 2017–18 season was particularly noteworthy, as the team reached the semifinals of the Copa del Rey. A highlight of this cup run was the elimination of Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, achieved with a memorable 2–1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. In the league, the club’s best finish came in the 2018–19 season, securing 13th place. Despite these achievements, the 2019–20 season concluded with relegation, following a 2–2 draw against Real Madrid on the final matchday.
Recent Developments and Return to La Liga (2020s)
Following relegation, CD Leganés demonstrated resilience and determination. The club’s efforts culminated in the 2023–24 season, when they finished first in the Segunda División, earning promotion back to La Liga after a four-season absence. This achievement underscored the club’s commitment to growth and competitiveness at the highest level of Spanish football.
Stadium and Facilities
Since 1998, CD Leganés has called the Estadio Municipal de Butarque its home. The stadium, with a seating capacity of 12,454, has witnessed the club’s rise through the divisions and hosted numerous memorable matches. Prior to Butarque, the team played at the Luis Rodríguez de Miguel Stadium from 1966 until their move in 1998.
Club Identity and Supporters
CD Leganés is affectionately known as “Los Pepineros,” a nickname that translates to “The Cucumber Growers,” reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage. The club’s traditional colors are white shirts with blue stripes and white shorts. The fan base is renowned for its passionate support, creating a vibrant atmosphere at home matches. Over the years, the club has fostered friendly relations with other teams, including a notable connection with Reading F.C. of England, partly due to their shared blue and white colors.
Rivalries
A significant rivalry exists between CD Leganés and Getafe CF, known as the South Madrid derby. Matches between these neighboring clubs are highly anticipated, characterized by intense competition and fervent fan engagement.
Notable Figures
Throughout its history, CD Leganés has been guided by several influential figures. Luis Ángel Duque, who led the team to promotion in the early 1990s, is celebrated for his contributions. In recent years, Victoria Pavón’s presidency has been instrumental in the club’s resurgence and financial stability. Additionally
