# Coliseum Alfonso Pérez: A Failure of Getafe's Records at the Stadium
The Coliseum Alfonso Pérez, the home ground of Getafe CF, was once a symbol of the club's ambition and future potential. However, over the years, it has become a stark reminder of poor planning, financial mismanagement, and a failure to deliver on promises. This article explores how the stadium's construction and subsequent management have turned into a liability rather than an asset.
## A Stadium Built with Delays
The construction of the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez was initially scheduled to be completed in 2007. However, the project faced numerous delays, with work dragging on for over a decade. The delays were attributed to poor planning, insufficient funding, and political instability in the region. By the time the stadium finally opened its doors in 2010, it was already years behind schedule and well over budget.
## Budget Overruns and Financial Mismanagement
The initial budget for the stadium was set at €42 million, but by the time the project was completed, costs had spiraled to €108 million. This massive overrun has left Getafe CF deeply in debt, straining the club's financial health. The increased debt has also limited the club's ability to invest in player transfers and infrastructure, impacting their competitive edge.
## A Stadium That Doesn't Fit the Club
One of the most contentious issues surrounding the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez is its design and layout. The stadium's seating arrangement, which places the majority of the stands on one side of the pitch, has been criticized for creating a hostile environment for away fans. Additionally, the pitch itself has been criticized for being too small and with poor drainage, leading to frequent complaints from players and fans alike.
## The Failure of Getafe's Footballing Record
The stadium's failure to host major football events, such as the UEFA Champions League or Copa del Rey finals, has further tarnished its reputation. Getafe CF has not qualified for the Champions League since 2006, and the stadium's inability to attract large crowds has hurt the club's revenue. The club's inability to host high-profile matches has also been a blow to local pride and the region's football identity.
## A Stadium Named After a Controversial Figure
The stadium's name, Coliseum Alfonso Pérez, is also a point of contention. Alfonso Pérez was a former Getafe mayor known for his controversial policies and personal wealth. Naming the stadium after him has been criticized as an attempt to legitimize his legacy, while others see it as a stain on the club's reputation.
## Conclusion
The Coliseum Alfonso Pérez represents a failure of Getafe CF's leadership and planning. Its construction delays, budget overruns, poor design, and lack of success on the pitch have turned it into a liability rather than an asset. For the club to move forward, it must address its financial struggles, improve on-field performance, and rethink its approach to stadium management. Until then, the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez will continue to serve as a reminder of what went wrong—and what needs to change for Getafe CF to rise again.