Santi Cazorla, 41, Retires from Football: 'I Never Stopped Trying'

Spanish midfielder Santi Cazorla, now 41, concluded a distinguished 25‑year professional career that began at Real Oviedo in 2001 and included standout spells at Arsenal, Villarreal and Malaga. Persistent injuries in recent seasons prompted him to announce his retirement in 2026, emphasizing that he never stopped trying to improve.

Cazorla expressed a desire to mentor young talent and pursue coaching qualifications, keeping his passion for football alive.