Jesus Navas has acknowledged that he must conclude his illustrious career in December owing to “intense” chronic pain.
Navas has demonstrated remarkable durability in his career, achieving a club-record 692 appearances for his hometown club Sevilla. He will reach the age of 39 in November, yet he continues to provide performances for Sevilla, despite his body indicating the need to cease.
The ex-Manchester City winger, now predominantly a right-back, suffers from an arthritic hip that complicates even routine activities. Last Thursday, he experienced significant pain that hindered his ability to walk; however, by Saturday morning, he proclaimed himself fit to commence his first match of the season against Getafe in La Liga. Remarkably, he scored the sole goal in a 1-0 victory before being substituted to ice his hip.
Navas is aware that he is nearing the conclusion of his tenure on the field for Sevilla, where he has dedicated 17 years to the first team, interspersed by four prosperous years at City. Following the dramatic events at the Sanchez Pizjuan, Navas revealed the extent of the physical deterioration.
He informed Canal Sur Radio that he had been in this predicament for four years. “It is exhausting you, it is deteriorating, and it is becoming increasingly persistent and intense.” It is challenging; after completing a game, I am unable to walk for two or three days, which complicates everything.
“These six months presented a significant challenge for me.” I desired to be part of the team. I aspire to endure until December, since each game increasingly presents challenges. I can no longer endure this; it has become a health concern. There are occasions when I am unable to be with my children. I have made a decision.
Navas nearly departed from Sevilla in May, but club president Jose Maria del Nido Carrasco subsequently reversed his decision and extended a lifetime deal to him. Navas will continue to play until the conclusion of 2024, with his salary allocated to the club’s philanthropic foundation, after which he will retire and transition to a non-playing position.
Navas stated, “I have not wavered for a moment in affirming the proposal put forth by the president of my Sevilla.” “Indeed, I wish to retire in Nervion.” I wish to persist in playing for Sevilla. I freely consent to remain associated with the club to which I am devoted. My desire, which I have communicated to the president, is to continue playing until December to facilitate the team’s transition.
Navas’ last match is anticipated to occur on December 22, away vs Real Madrid. No matter the circumstances leading up to that point, he will retire as a legend, having contributed to Sevilla’s acquisition of four Europa League crowns and two Copa del Reys, in addition to two European Championships and the World Cup with Spain.
