Santi Cazorla, the veteran Spanish midfielder, is on the brink of concluding his illustrious career with Real Oviedo, his childhood club. As he gears up for the 2025-26 La Liga season—22 years after making his professional debut—Cazorla reflects deeply on the journey that has defined his life. One of the catalysts for his resilience during his tumultuous career has been the unwavering support from his son, Enzo, who at just 15 years old inspired him through some of the darkest days.
Cazorla’s career has been riddled with challenges, particularly during a harrowing two-year period when he was sidelined due to severe ankle injuries. These injuries not only jeopardized his footballing career but also threatened his ability to walk. Throughout this painful journey, Cazorla found motivation in his family, especially in Enzo’s heartfelt pleas—imploring his father to fight through the pain and return to the pitch. His son’s simple, yet powerful words, “Please try again,” served as a beacon of hope, helping him persist through 11 surgeries and complex rehabilitation processes.
Now, with the culmination of his career in sight, Cazorla is set to don the Real Oviedo colors once again. The team, with which he has a lifelong bond, made a historic return to La Liga after a 24-year hiatus, thanks in large part to his contributions during the previous season. “This will be my last season,” Cazorla announces candidly, acknowledging the signals his body has given him. He looks back fondly on his childhood dreams of playing for Oviedo, and now finds himself at the age of 40, living that dream.
A strong connection remains between Cazorla and the supporters of Oviedo, eliciting an emotional farewell season. His recent signing of a one-year contract exhibits more than just a professional commitment; it allows him to conclude his career on his own terms, embodying the spirit of perseverance. “I love football, but I know when to end,” he stated, illustrating the balance of passion and reality.
In conversations with Cazorla, it becomes clear that he appreciates the smaller, often overlooked aspects of life as he approaches the end of his time as a player. His perspective has transformed—now cherishing the camaraderie with fans, the atmosphere surrounding games, and the shared joy with teammates. His upcoming matches, including the opener against Villarreal—where he previously made significant contributions—are not just games but personal milestones that he intends to savor.
The journey that led him to this moment is not without its difficulties. Following a challenging period of injuries that began with an innocuous incident while playing for the Spanish national team against Chile in 2013, Cazorla faced multiple surgeries that almost ended his career prematurely. The invasive procedures required to repair his Achilles tendon involved grafting skin from his arm, an experience that reshaped not just his ankle but also his outlook on life and football. He recalls the struggles of being separated from his family during this time, affirming that “if you have a dream, you have to fight every day.”
Despite being released by Arsenal, a club where he enjoyed notable success—including winning two FA Cups—Cazorla’s journey continued with Villarreal. His positive attitude and resilience led him back to the pitch, and his affection for Arsenal remains strong, with an openness to return in some capacity post-retirement. The heartfelt memories of his time at the club linger, with many fond moments shared with former teammates and coaches, including Mikel Arteta.
Cazorla’s legacy is intertwined with Real Oviedo, a club struggling through the years but recently revitalized. His commitment to returning to Oviedo is rooted in his desire to inspire the next generation. He purchased shares in the club during its economic struggles, reinforcing his dedication to its well-being. As he prepares to sing his club’s anthem in front of thousands of fans at the upcoming promotion party, it is clear that Cazorla is more than just a player; he is a symbol of hope and resilience for the community.
Ultimately, Cazorla’s story encapsulates the ideals of perseverance, familial support, and a deep-rooted love for the beautiful game. As he takes to the field one last time, the atmosphere will be electric, not merely because of the potential accolades that await but for the emotional voyage that comprises Cazorla’s footballing career.
