Spanish football icon Jesús Navas bid an emotional farewell to his illustrious playing career on Monday in front of 45,000 adoring fans at Sevilla’s Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium. The 39-year-old winger, celebrated as the most-decorated player in the history of Sevilla and the Spanish national team, officially retires on December 31 due to a chronic hip injury that has plagued him in recent seasons.
“I live to give joy to my Sevilla and the Spanish fans, and if it hadn’t been for my hip, I would have continued, that’s for sure,” Navas told the crowd, his voice breaking with emotion. Standing beneath a banner reading “Navas Legend,” he added, “This was a very difficult decision, but in the last few weeks, the pain became unbearable.”
Navas, who rose through Sevilla’s youth ranks, made 705 appearances for the club across 18 seasons. He also enjoyed a successful four-year stint at Manchester City from 2013 to 2017, where he played 183 matches. To honor his service, Sevilla presented him with a framed jersey featuring the number 705, symbolizing his record-setting appearances for the club.
The tribute was attended by his family and included heartfelt messages from current and former teammates. Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri called Navas “a role model in every respect,” while former Sevilla captain Sergio Ramos described him as “the greatest legend the club has ever had.”
Navas’ storied career includes an impressive haul of 15 trophies, among them four international titles with Spain: the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Euro 2012, the 2023 UEFA Nations League, and Euro 2024. He also secured eight trophies with Sevilla, solidifying his status as a club legend.
The ceremony marked the end of a 21-year professional career, with his final La Liga appearance taking place on December 22, when he came on as a substitute in Sevilla’s 4-2 loss to Real Madrid. Despite the bittersweet ending, Navas leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, passion, and unparalleled achievements that will inspire generations to come.
