Football legend Santi Cazorla has recently indicated that his illustrious playing career might be nearing its conclusion, with an official announcement expected soon. The veteran midfielder, currently a key figure at Real Oviedo, confirmed that a definitive decision about his future has been reached. This news comes as Oviedo navigates a demanding season, having recently returned to La Liga after a 24-year absence. Cazorla, at 41, has primarily featured as a substitute, contributing to the team's efforts while reflecting on a year he described as 'tough' for everyone involved.
Cazorla's journey with Real Oviedo is deeply personal; he is an academy product of the club, though he had to depart early in his career due to financial constraints. His path then led him to Villarreal, where he established himself before moving on to Arsenal and then returning to Villarreal, cementing his status as a world-class talent. After a stint in Qatar, he made an emotional return to his boyhood club. This season, despite the team's struggles, Cazorla has remained dedicated, expressing his desire to give his all in the remaining fixtures.
The announcement of his decision coincided with Cazorla receiving the prestigious 'Moscon de Oro' award from the Asociacion Amigos de Grado. At the Oviedo training complex, he accepted the accolade, which recognizes his embodiment of sportsmanship and values. During the ceremony, Cazorla alluded to his impending retirement, stating that while the current focus is on the team, a formal declaration would follow. He emphasized that the decision was a collective one, made in consultation with his family and the club, underscoring the thoughtfulness behind this significant life choice.
Real Oviedo faces a probable return to Segunda Division, with a seven-point deficit separating them from safety with only five games remaining. Cazorla openly acknowledged that the difficulties of the season played a role in his decision-making process. He expressed that after a long-awaited promotion, the expectation was a season of enjoyment, despite the inherent challenges of avoiding relegation. The demanding nature of the year, he noted, contributed to his ultimate decision, though he cherishes every moment spent representing the club he holds dear.
A significant point of frustration for Oviedo supporters throughout the season has been the instability in the managerial position. Veljko Paunovic's early dismissal led to Luis Carrion's brief, winless tenure. By December, Guillermo Almada took the helm, finally bringing a sense of stability and enabling the team to perform at its best. Cazorla reflected on these events, stating that the club has numerous lessons to learn from the season, particularly concerning management and the crucial need for unity across all levels of the organization. He stressed the importance of maintaining this unity to prevent future setbacks.
The recent 2-1 loss to Elche effectively sealed Oviedo's fate for many, signaling their likely relegation. Cazorla's return to Oviedo, initially in Segunda, saw him instrumental in their promotion to La Liga through the playoffs last year. However, his on-field contributions have been more limited this season, marking a poignant end to a remarkable chapter in his career.
