From lifting the UCL with Real Madrid's 'galacticos' to selling cigarettes for a living

Oscar Miñambres arrived at Real Madrid at a great time. He shared dressing room with Beckham, Zidane, Roberto Carlos, Figo, Raul, Hierro... a host of stars who marked an era.

But misfortune overshadowed the defender's career. After countless physical struggles, he decided to retire. He made his debut in a Champions League fixture against Porto and remained at the Bernabeu until 2004.

He had a spell at Espanyol before retiring at Hercules, tired of all the injuries. He was a professional footballer for barely six years, in which he played 116 matches, scoring five goals. 

'There were times in which I didn't know what to do, but I conquered the challenge. I had to focus on helping my family quickly', the former footballer told Spanish outlet 'Panenka'.

'I have spent six years working from eight to eight. I don't like the tobacconist, I don't like my job, but it is what it is. It is not my dream life, I don't feel accomplished, but I hope it lasts until I retire', he added.

Miñambres had to get used to his new life in a matter of months to continue to support his family. He overcame depression and can now say his family are happy thanks to his everyday work. Not everything is football, though sometimes it can be hard to understand.