Sevilla's captain and the most decorated player in Spanish history is expected to bring his career to an end at the end of 2024, after celebrating his 39th birthday. This is due to a hip injury that, in the days following matches, leaves him unable to even walk.
Embed from Getty Images
Jesús Navas, Sevilla’s captain and a Spanish football icon, has officially confirmed that the curtain will come down on his illustrious career at the end of 2024.
The 38-year-old right-back, whose résumé includes a World Cup triumph in 2010, two European Championship victories in 2012 and 2024, and a Nations League title in 2022, will bid farewell to the sport after more than two decades at the top level. His impending retirement comes as no surprise given the toll his body has taken, particularly a persistent hip injury that has severely impacted his day-to-day life.
Navas, speaking candidly on Canal Sur Radio, opened up about the physical challenges he now faces, admitting that his condition makes it difficult to maintain the rigorous routine required at a professional football club. The hip injury, which has plagued him for the past four years, often leaves him unable to walk in the days following a match, and the physical and emotional toll has finally led him to make the difficult decision to retire.
"I can’t take it anymore, the decision has been made," Navas revealed. "I’ve been in this situation for four years, and it’s a more continuous and intense wear and tear. It’s difficult when you finish a match and then spend two or three days unable to walk." His honesty highlighted the pain he has endured while continuing to play at the highest level. Navas admitted that the next six months will be a major challenge for him as he seeks to contribute to his team for as long as possible, but acknowledged that the end is near. "I want to be with the team. I hope I can make it to December because each game is becoming more difficult," he lamented, underlining the physical burden he faces.
Despite his body’s limitations, Navas' love for football remains unwavering. He spoke emotionally about how much the game means to him, referring to football as his life. However, the hip injury has forced him to reconsider his priorities. "I made this decision because it’s a physical issue," Navas explained. "Everyone who knows me knows that I love to play sports, but it’s getting harder and harder, and I don’t want to reach a point where I can’t play with my kids." His comments showed the deep personal conflict he feels while he wants to keep playing, he also wants to ensure he’s healthy enough to enjoy life with his family after football.
In the same interview, Navas revealed that his Sevilla teammates have urged him to ease off and skip training sessions to preserve his body, but the veteran defender has consistently refused. His dedication to the club and to the sport is unshakable. "I’m not one to talk much, but I believe the legacy of giving everything in each training session... they will remember that," he said. Despite the excruciating pain he endures, Navas remains committed to training with the same intensity he’s had for over two decades. "I’ve been training with pain for 20 years, and if they train, I train too," Navas stated. He joked that skipping a training session would cause him more pain than participating, though he admitted that in the future, he’ll likely find relief in a less strenuous activity like cycling.
Even as his physical struggles worsen, Navas’ competitive spirit is still burning strong. His perseverance was on full display earlier this season, as he participated in the first five La Liga matches for Sevilla. In a remarkable moment, Navas scored the winning goal in Sevilla’s 1-0 victory over Getafe, making history as the oldest player to ever score for the Andalusian club in the league. That goal is a testament to his enduring quality and his ability to perform even under the most trying circumstances.
For Sevilla, Navas’ retirement will mark the end of an era. The club legend, who has spent the majority of his career with the team, represents the heart and soul of the club. Over the years, Navas has embodied the fighting spirit of Sevilla, leading by example both on and off the pitch. His departure will leave a significant void, not just in the team but in the hearts of the fans, who have admired his tireless work ethic, loyalty, and dedication to the club.
As Navas prepares for the final chapter of his career, Sevilla and their supporters will undoubtedly savor every remaining moment they have with their captain. His contributions to the club and Spanish football as a whole are undeniable, and he leaves behind a legacy that few can match. While his body may be telling him it’s time to hang up his boots, Jesús Navas’ impact on the game will be felt for years to come.
The final stretch of his career, though challenging, will be a chance for Navas to reflect on his extraordinary journey one filled with triumphs, personal sacrifices, and an unwavering commitment to the sport he loves. As he nears retirement, the football world will celebrate not only a great player but a symbol of perseverance, passion, and devotion to the beautiful game.
Updated: 04:25, 18 Sep 2024
