Jesús Navas, through tears, thanks the Real Madrid fans for saying goodbye to his career

Real Madrid closed out 2024 with a 4-2 La Liga victory over Sevilla, but the match was dominated by a post-match farewell to Jesús Navas.

The veteran activist confirmed his call to retire at the end of the calendar year earlier this season.

Despite the unusual scenario of retiring mid-season, Sevilla accepted Navas’ job, with the 39-year-old battling a chronic hip injury for the past 18 months.

Navas has spoken emotionally about his physical problems in previous reports, stating that one day even walking will be difficult for him as retirement approaches.

In addition to breaking the Sevilla appearance record, Navas finishes his career in 10th place on La Liga’s all-time list, just behind Lionel Messi, with 516 to 520.

With the eyes of Spanish football on him at all times, a typically gracious Navas thanked Real Madrid fans for their respect after the match, despite the idea of ​​sacking a rival player.

“What I experienced at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium was blessed madness. “I don’t remember ever seeing something like this in a rival stadium,” he said.

“I want to thank the Real Madrid fans for their dedication and recognition towards me in a memory that will be unforgettable.”

As well as three major honors with Spain, Navas walks away from football with a string of titles at his beloved Sevilla, including four UEFA Europa League crowns and two Copas del Rey.