Spanish midfield maestro Santi Cazorla has signed a one-year contract extension with Real Oviedo, the club confirmed on Saturday. The 40-year-old veteran, who will turn 41 in December, will continue playing for his boyhood club following a fairytale season that saw Oviedo earn promotion to La Liga for the first time in 24 years.
Cazorla rejoined Oviedo in August 2023 after a distinguished career across Europe, notably with Villarreal, Málaga, Arsenal, and Al Sadd in Qatar. His return to Asturias was not just sentimental it was transformative. His leadership and technical brilliance played a pivotal role in guiding Oviedo through a historic campaign, culminating in their long-awaited return to Spain’s top division.
In a heartfelt statement, Real Oviedo described the midfielder as a “symbol and emblem” of the club. “With this renewal, Santi Cazorla proves that dreams, when pursued with the heart, come true,” the club wrote. “Real Oviedo have secured the leadership of a footballer who embodies the club’s values like few others, both on and off the field.”
Cazorla’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. A two-time European Championship winner with Spain in 2008 and 2012, he amassed 81 international caps. At Arsenal, he was a fan favourite, winning two FA Cups and overcoming a career-threatening Achilles injury that once left him unable to walk. His comeback from that injury remains one of football’s most inspiring stories.
Despite his age, Cazorla showed last season that he still possesses the vision, creativity, and composure that made him one of Europe’s most admired midfielders. His extension is seen as both a reward for his contribution and a statement of intent as Oviedo prepare for the challenges of La Liga.
Cazorla’s presence in the squad offers not only experience but also a powerful narrative for fans and teammates alike. As Real Oviedo embark on a new chapter in the top flight, their hometown hero will be right at the heart of it proving once again that age is just a number when passion and talent lead the way.
