Retiring Spanish football icon Jesus Navas delivered an emotional farewell to his illustrious playing career on Monday during a heartfelt ceremony at Sevilla’s packed Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium. The event was filled with songs, chants, and tributes from an audience of approximately 45,000 fans.
At 39 years old, Navas steps away as the most-decorated player in Sevilla and Spanish national team history. His official retirement will take effect when his contract concludes on December 31, primarily due to a chronic hip injury that has hampered him in recent years.
“I live to give joy to my Sevilla and the Spanish fans, and if it hadn’t been for my hip, I would have continued, that’s for sure. That’s why it was very difficult for me to say that this is the end of the season,” Navas expressed emotionally, as he spoke to the adoring crowd while pausing to compose himself.
The celebrated winger, who began his career in Sevilla’s youth system, made an impressive 705 appearances for the club over an 18-season span, as well as contributing 183 games during a four-year stint at another top club.
During the farewell ceremony, he was presented with a framed jersey featuring his name and the number 705, surrounded by his wife, two sons, and parents as the crowd erupted with applause and chants honoring his legacy.
Navas has claimed a total of 15 trophies, including a record four with Spain: the 2010 World Cup, Euro 2012, UEFA Nations League in 2023, and Euro 2024, in addition to eight titles with Sevilla.
Rodri, a current midfielder for Spain, praised Navas as “a role model in every respect,” while former Sevilla defender Sergio Ramos referred to him as “the greatest legend the club has ever had.”
Navas played his final La Liga match on December 22, coming on as a substitute for Sevilla in their recent 4-2 loss against Real Madrid.
