New Delhi: The footballing world said goodbye to one of the most decorated and beloved player Jesus Navas onto the pitch after Sevilla lost to Real Madrid 4-2. The Spanish veteran had though confirmed earlier his call to retire at the end of the calendar year but the reality of his departure marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in football history.
The 39-year-old has been a stalwart for Spain, contributing to some of the country’s most memorable footballing moments. In the 2010 World Cup final, with the score tied 0-0 against the Netherlands, he came on as a substitute and immediately displayed his qualities on the grandest stage, playing a key role in the build-up to Andrés Iniesta’s winning goal.
Fourteen years later, at Euro 2024, with Dani Carvajal suspended, he stepped up again in the semi-final against France, becoming the oldest outfield player ever to appear in a Euro or World Cup semi-final. Despite receiving a yellow card in the 14th minute, he showed no fear of France’s star striker Kylian Mbappe and delivered a standout performance, playing a crucial role in Dani Olmo’s winning goal.
Navas won two UEFA European Championships (2008, 2012), a FIFA World Cup (2010), the UEFA Nations League (2023) and even contributed to Spain’s success in Euro 2024. His ability to perform in the most significant moments whether as a starter or a substitute has made him an indispensable part of his country’s golden generation.
El niño de Los Palacios que se convirtió en Leyenda 👑🏆#GraciasNavas pic.twitter.com/WKvU3xxQNK
— Sevilla Fútbol Club (@SevillaFC) December 22, 2024
Contributions to Sevilla’s success
Navas’ contribution has been crucial in Sevilla’s European success over the years as he has played a pivotal role in helping them secure a record seven UEFA Cup/Europa League triumphs. Even in the high-stakes moments, he has risked his health to ensure victory for his side. After spending 14 years at Sevilla he moved to Premier League in 2013 joining Manchester City.
Despite winning a Premier League title (2013-14) and two League Cups (2014, 2016) with Man City Navas’s heart remained in Sevilla, and in 2017 he returned to his boyhood club and became their captain and a symbol of resilience.
❤ Gracias por todo, @JNavas.#LALIGAEASPORTS | #RealMadridSevillaFC pic.twitter.com/QjQA96vwVv
— LALIGA (@LaLiga) December 22, 2024
Memorable farewell
After the match, with the eyes of Spanish football fixed on him, Navas displayed his characteristic grace, thanking the Real Madrid fans for their heartfelt tribute. The Bernabeu faithful set aside rivalry to honour one of football’s finest, a gesture that deeply moved the veteran.
“What I experienced at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu was a blessed madness. I can’t remember ever seeing anything like it in a rival stadium,” Navas remarked. “I want to thank the Real Madrid fans for their dedication and recognition of me in a memory that will be unforgettable.”
Eres 𝗟𝗘𝗬𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗔, @JNavas. ❤️
🫶 Gracias por tu fútbol. #LALIGAEASPORTS | @SevillaFC pic.twitter.com/njGaNc4LYi
— LALIGA (@LaLiga) December 22, 2024
His farewell serves as a reminder of his immense contributions to football and ensures that his legacy as one of the sport’s most respected and beloved figures will live on.
Navas legacy…
As Navas bids farewell to football, he leaves behind a legacy defined by loyalty, humility, and tireless dedication. Few players have epitomized the phrase “feeling the colours” as profoundly as Navas who dedicated nearly his entire career to Sevilla, the club where his journey began.
However, Navas’ influence will continue to resonate within the club’s walls serving as an enduring symbol of passion and success. He retires not just as a player but as a true icon of the sport.
Jesus Navas hangs up his boots after a career marked by triumphs, dedication, and unforgettable moments on the pitch. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
