Former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has retired from professional football at the age of 41. The Spanish playmaker concluded his illustrious career after three seasons with boyhood club Real Oviedo, bringing the curtain down on a journey that spanned more than two decades at the highest level of the game.
Santi Cazorla has retired from professional football at the age of 41, closing the chapter on a remarkable career that spanned more than two decades.
The former Arsenal midfielder spent his final three seasons with boyhood club Real Oviedo, helping the club write a memorable final chapter in his playing journey. Oviedo paid tribute to their legendary midfielder with an emotional message on social media:
"There are stories that don’t end... they live on forever. Thank you for everything."
Cazorla's career will be remembered not only for his extraordinary technical ability and creativity but also for his resilience. After suffering serious Achilles injuries that threatened both his career and his ability to walk normally, the Spanish playmaker completed one of football's greatest comebacks before eventually returning to the club where his journey began.
During his six-year spell at Arsenal, Cazorla became a fan favorite thanks to his vision, intelligence and two-footed brilliance. He made over 180 appearances for the Gunners and played a key role in ending the club's long wait for silverware by helping them win multiple FA Cups.
On the international stage, Cazorla earned more than 80 caps for Spain and was part of the golden generation that dominated world football, winning UEFA Euro 2008 and UEFA Euro 2012.
Now, after an unforgettable career filled with trophies, setbacks and triumphs, Cazorla leaves the game as one of the most admired midfielders of his era.
