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Champions LeagueJuly 22, 2026

Santi Cazorla announces his resignation: "I don't have the role

Santi Cazorla, the captain of Real Oviedo, announced his retirement from professional football in a press conference and explained his reasons.

Santi Cazorla announces his resignation: "I don't have the role

Santi Cazorla announces his resignation: "I don't have the role

According to Tuttomercatoweb.

Background

Santi Cazorla, who played for clubs such as Villarreal and Arsenal during his career, returned to Real Oviedo in 2020, where he took on an important role in the team. His return was seen by many as the emotional highlight of his career and he will be remembered as one of Spain's best midfielders. According to Transfermarkt, Cazorla not only provided sporting but also social impulses during his time in Oviedo.

Why this is important

The retirement of Santi Cazorla marks the end of an impressive career spanning 23 years in professional football. As captain and symbolic figure of Real Oviedo, he played an important role not only on the pitch but also off it. His decision could also have an impact on the team dynamics and the club's future strategy, especially with a view to the 2026 World Cup and the development of young talent.

Key findings

  • Santi Cazorla announces his resignation: "I don't have the role.
  • Santi Cazorla, the captain of Real Oviedo, announced his retirement from professional football in a press conference and explained his reasons.
  • Real Oviedo, Cazorla: "Ritiro? Non ho il ruolo e l'importanza che vorrei". Su un futuro al club...
Santi Cazorla, the captain and symbol of Real Oviedo, announced on Tuesday in an organized press conference the reasons for his retirement at the age of 41, after 23 years as a professional footballer. The former Spain international spoke about the challenges that led him to this decision. "A lot has been said that it should be my decision, but that is not the case. This is not about playing with friends at school, but about representing a club and everyone has to be convinced to work in the same direction. In this sense, I already noticed some things during last season that made me realize that I do not have the role and importance that I want," explained Cazorla. He respects the opinions of others and sees no problem with them. Despite his desire to play football for another year, this was not made possible for him. A crucial conversation with Oviedo's new coach, Julián Calero, led him to this decision. “He told me what he thought and that really helped me make the decision,” Cazorla said. Image "I have never regretted returning to Oviedo, on the contrary, I should have returned sooner. Returning to Real Oviedo was the best decision of my life; the last three years have been incredible. There have been ups and downs, because relegation is always hard, and I don't want to say that I won't continue because I can't compete in the Primera División, but these last three years have been wonderful personally," said the emotional midfielder from Asturias. When asked about his immediate future after hanging up his boots, Cazorla confirmed that he will not be "working at the club", although he is grateful that the doors have been opened to him. He plans to consult with his family, take his time and decide later. "In Pachuca I would say that you should listen to the fans. Regardless of the category, there is the feeling and you have to make them happy. They have experienced the two sides of the coin: the beautiful one with promotion to the Primera and the other caused by things that were not done correctly. I have spoken a lot about it with President Martín Peláez; I have an excellent relationship with him and I think they are aware of the mistakes. I hope they don't make them again," added the 41-year-old Spaniard added. When he received the news of his resignation, "a few tears" were shed. Three moments particularly shaped his career: "Promotion to the Primera with Real Oviedo, the 2008 European Championship, which we won with Spain, and my debut in the Primera División with Villarreal."

What happens next

Following Cazorla's retirement, Real Oviedo will likely look for a new captain to lead the team next season. The club could also rethink its squad planning to fill the gap left by Cazorla. Fans and analysts will be keen to see how the team develops under new coach Julián Calero, especially in view of the upcoming challenges in the league.

Frequently asked questions

What did Santi Cazorla announce?

Santi Cazorla has announced his retirement from professional football.

Who confirmed Cazorla's resignation?

Santi Cazorla confirmed his resignation in a press conference.

Why has Cazorla announced his resignation now?

Cazorla explained that he does not have the role and importance in the team that he wants and a crucial conversation with the new coach Julián Calero has led him to this decision.

What changes led to Cazorla's resignation?

Cazorla noticed changes during the last season that made him realize that e r does not have the desired role in the team.

How long was Cazorla active as a professional footballer?

Santi Cazorla was a professional footballer for 23 years.

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Häufig gestellte Fragen

What did Santi Cazorla announce?
Santi Cazorla has announced his retirement from professional football.
Who confirmed Cazorla's resignation?
Santi Cazorla confirmed his resignation in a press conference.
Why has Cazorla resigned now?
Cazorla explained that he does not have the role and importance in the team that he wants and a crucial conversation with the new coach Julián Calero has led him to this decision.
What changes led to Cazorla's resignation?
Cazorla noticed changes during last season that made him realize he didn't have the role he wanted on the team.
How long was Cazorla active as a professional footballer?
Santi Cazorla was a professional footballer for 23 years.
What happened in this story?
Santi Cazorla announces his resignation: "I do not have the role summarizes the main development covered in this report.
Who confirmed this news?
See the source attribution in the article for where this report was first published or corroborated.
Santi Cazorla announces retirement from professional football | MannschaftGoal