New Delhi: Sevilla emerged victorious against Celta de Vigo in what was Jesus Navas’s last match on the grounds of Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium. The atmosphere around the game had already been of high emotion as to a club he had spent 17 years playing for.
The crowd in the stadium kept calling their long-time captain the “Pride of Nervion”. Navas has, through the years, gained a lot of respect from Seville fans, having come through the youth ranks. The starting players of both teams had formed a guard of honour for Navas, who appeared emotional.
However, once onto the pitch, it was business as usual as he charged down the right flanks. The 39-year-old had turned back the clock for the side’s fans as he became the centre of early pressing from Sevilla against a resilient Celta. Navas played 70 minutes in a game in which Sevilla won 1-0.
The last dance 👑#DespedidadeLeyenda pic.twitter.com/Y1qZaiwdmg
— Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) December 14, 2024
In the 70th minute, Garcia Pimienta decided to substitute Navas for Idumbo. It was a sentimental moment as fans, players, and coaches applauded the Spanish international’s contribution to the game and to the club. He may well be said to be one of the best to have ever stepped onto the field for Sevilla.
An emotional goodbye from Jesus Navas
To mark the end of his time at the club, Navas took a lap of honour around the stadium. Coming to the spot where his teammate Antonio Puerta had collapsed during a game against Getafe, an emotional Navas knelt down to kiss the grass. Puerta and Navas had a brilliant connection. After returning from Manchester City to Sevilla for his second term at the club, Navas wore the number 16 shirt in order to honour Puerta.
He has made 702 appearances for Sevilla, the most by any player and has won four UEFA Europa League, one UEFA Super Cup, two Copa del Rey and one Spanish Super Cup. Navas will leave the club as one of the most decorated players to have played for them.
Navas reacted to the game during the post-match interview and thanked the crowd and the club, calling it an “honour” to play for the team. There is little doubt that he leaves behind a great legacy at the club. His farewell game at the stadium, though towards the end, did have some nervous moments as Celta looked to fight back. However, it seemed that destiny didn’t want to spoil the special moment for Sevilla’s great.
Jesus Navas played his last home game for Sevilla, as win against Celta de Vigo turns both nostalgic and emotional. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
