In the twilight of a career that defies both time and medical expectation, Santi Cazorla has once again written his name into football folklore.
The diminutive magician, beloved by Arsenal fans for his creativity and irrepressible joy, netted his first goal for Real Oviedo in a commanding 5-1 victory over Racing de Ferrol. The strike, a composed penalty, was not just a milestone but a poetic special for a player who has battled through adversity to continue living his dream.
A dream fulfilled
“It’s a special day,” said Cazorla, reflecting on the moment that will resonate with fans of Real Oviedo and beyond. “The most important thing is the three points, but I was able to score my debut goal, with a penalty, it’s a day I’ve been waiting for, because I’ve fulfilled a dream since I was a child. Even before the penalty was called, I thought about that moment, how much I had been waiting for, but I was also focused because it was important to score. I shot with conviction and I’m happy because it helped the team to score.”
The 39-year-old Spaniard, who returned to his boyhood club last year, converted from the spot with typical calmness, a hallmark of his illustrious career.
The goal came early in the match and set the tone for a dominant display. Real Oviedo, struggling with defensive lapses in recent weeks, found cohesion in attack under manager Javi Calleja’s revamped system. Cazorla, dictating play from midfield, was instrumental in the team’s success.
A remarkable journey
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 23: Mikel Arteta and Santi Cazorla of Arsenal at the finsl whistle during the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester City and Arsenal at Etihad Stadium on September 23, 2012 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Cazorla’s path to this moment has been anything but straightforward. Arsenal fans will remember the horror injury he suffered in 2016, a severe Achilles problem that led to multiple surgeries and a devastating infection. At one point, doctors reportedly considered amputating his foot. Few believed he would ever play football again, let alone at an elite level.
Santi Cazorla's ankle. Picture: Pablo García/MARCA
Santi Cazorla’s ankle. Picture: Pablo García/MARCA
Yet Cazorla defied the odds, making an emotional return to the pitch with Villarreal in 2018. His performances were so inspiring that he earned a recall to the Spanish national team. His stint in Qatar with Al-Sadd allowed him to maintain his fitness and extend his career before fulfilling his lifelong dream of representing Real Oviedo.
Arsenal’s fan favourite
At Arsenal, Cazorla remains a fan favourite for his artistry and versatility. Signed from Málaga in 2012, he quickly became the heartbeat of the team. Whether playing as a wide forward, an advanced playmaker, or a deep-lying midfielder, Cazorla’s technical brilliance was evident. His two-footedness and ability to unlock defences with ease endeared him to the Emirates faithful.
LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 10: (L-R) Santi Cazorla, Mikel Arteta and Alexis Sanchez of Arsenal pose with the trophy after the FA Community Shield match between Manchester City and Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on August 10, 2014 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images
His role in Arsenal’s 2014 FA Cup triumph remains iconic. It was his thunderous free-kick that sparked a comeback against Hull City, ending the club’s nine-year trophy drought. Cazorla’s infectious smile and love for the game made him a talismanic figure, and his departure in 2018 due to his injury struggles was met with universal sadness.
Defying time and pain
Now approaching his 40th birthday, Cazorla continues to defy expectations. Oviedo’s manager Javi Calleja heaped praise on his captain, noting his determination to play through pain. “What can I say about Santi? It’s unbelievable that he didn’t feel pressure with the fans wanting him to score. He scored his first goal and we couldn’t be happier. Regarding the blood on his boot, he played like that throughout the first half and had stitches on his foot in the second half. He got a big cut on him from an unlucky blow. He’s a great player,” said Calleja.
A perfect afternoon
For Real Oviedo, the victory was a much-needed boost after two consecutive defeats. For Cazorla, it was a moment to savour, shared with fans who have supported him through his journey. “We’re privileged to have the support of our fans,” he said. “Now we have to build on this performance and stay focused.”
As Cazorla celebrated with the Oviedo faithful, it was clear that this was more than just a goal. It was the fulfilment of a childhood dream, a symbol of perseverance, and a reminder of why football remains the beautiful game.
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