Sunday's match between Real Madrid and Sevilla will be the last of Jesus Navas' illustrious career. He has already said goodbye to Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan and after the showdown at the Santiago Bernabeu he will bring down the curtain on his playing days.
It's strange for a player to retire mid-season, but for Navas it's necessary. He has been struggling with a chronic hip injury in recent years and he spoke about this during an interview with Marca.
“You are not prepared for this moment. It's a hip problem that says 'that's it', but football is something you've been doing all your life. It is what you love, it is a dream and I can say that I have achieved all my dreams, I have achieved all the joys, but waking up and not being able to touch the ball will be difficult.
“After all, I have been working on this subject for three or four years and it is complicated. I've been dealing with it a little better, but over the past year it's gotten worse and it's much harder. When I play a full game, the next day is difficult and there are days where I haven't been able to walk. And then you make a decision. My teammates know my problem, they see me training. I'm trying to control myself a little more, measure myself, but in a game you have to give everything you have and that impact, that jump, is where it gets worse.
Navas has also taken the opportunity to reflect on everything ahead of the final appearance of his career.
“A lot of emotions come to me. I try to assimilate it, enjoy the moment with my fans, with the affection of everyone and that's the most important thing. Ultimately, football is my life. I enjoy it to the fullest and that has made me reach my age, enjoying my Sevilla and my national team, my country, giving everything for them and ultimately reaching everyone. It's complicated.”
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