Santi Cazorla, the former Arsenal star, has prolonged his stay with Real Oviedo, signing a one-year contract extension following the club's promotion to La Liga. The announcement, made by the Spanish club on Saturday, ensures that the 40-year-old midfielder will continue to play a crucial role for his boyhood club as they embark on their return to top-flight football for the first time in 24 years.
Cazorla's initial contract was set to expire this year, but his contributions to the team's success have earned him a new deal. His experience and skill were instrumental in Real Oviedo's journey through the Segunda Division, culminating in a dramatic 3-2 aggregate victory over Mirandes in the promotion play-off final. The midfielder also scored a vital free-kick against Almeria in the play-off semi-finals.
Real Oviedo secured their promotion to La Liga after defeating CD Mirandes 3-1 in extra time in the second leg of the LALIGA HYPERMOTION promotion play-off final. Having lost the first leg 1-0, the Asturian side turned the match around in front of approximately 30,000 fans at the Estadio Carlos Tartiere. Goals from Francisco Portillo and Ilyas Chaira helped seal the victory.
Cazorla's return to Real Oviedo in 2023 was motivated by a desire to help his boyhood club. Despite receiving a substantial salary offer, he requested the minimum contract allowed under La Liga rules, demonstrating his commitment to the club's well-being. Additionally, he donates ten percent of the proceeds from jerseys bearing his name to the club's youth system.
"With this renewal, Santi Cazorla, a symbol and emblem of Oviedo, proves that dreams, when pursued with the heart, come true," the club stated. His continued presence in the squad will provide invaluable experience and leadership as they face the challenges of La Liga.
Cazorla brings a wealth of experience to Real Oviedo, having played in 323 La Liga matches, scoring 54 goals and providing 58 assists. Before returning to Spain, he played for Al-Sadd in Qatar for three years. He also enjoyed successful spells with Villarreal, Malaga and Arsenal. A key member of the Spanish national team, Cazorla earned 81 caps and was part of the squads that won the European Championships in 2008 and 2012.
Real Oviedo, founded in 1926, has a rich history, including 38 seasons in the Spanish top division. The club's return to La Liga marks a significant moment for the city and its fans. After facing financial difficulties and even dropping to the fourth division in the early 2000s, Real Oviedo has fought its way back to the highest level of Spanish football.
