Santi Cazorla Officially Retires at the Age of 41
July 2, 2026 · Global
Santi Cazorla announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 41, after completing a brilliant career with Real Oviedo.
Santi Cazorla finally announced his retirement from the world of professional football at the age of 41. This midfielder from Spain conveyed this decision via his social media. Cazorla ended his career at Real Oviedo, the club that was his first love, after suffering relegation from La Liga last season.
In an official statement, Real Oviedo stated, "Today marks the end of Santi Cazorla's playing career at Real Oviedo, but not the end of our relationship with the club. Having dedicated his life to football, now is the time for Santi to take a break and think about his next step. When that time comes, Santi knows that Real Oviedo's doors will always be open to him. This club will always be his home, and we look forward to sharing the future with Santi, in whatever role or position makes him happy."
Cazorla's career has taken him through several big clubs, including Villarreal, Recreativo Huelva, Málaga, Arsenal, and Al-Sadd in Qatar. He also had brilliant achievements with the Spanish national team, winning the European title in 2008 and 2012, with a total of 81 appearances and scoring 15 goals.
With Cazorla's retirement, football lost one of the most talented midfielders ever, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and the clubs he played for.