Santi Cazorla, 40, signs new Oviedo contract after La Liga promotion

Santi Cazorla has signed a new one-year contract with Real Oviedo, ensuring he remains with the club following their promotion to La Liga. This marks his third season back at his hometown club.

Cazorla played a crucial role in securing promotion, scoring goals in both the playoff semi-final against Almeria and the final victory over Mirandes. His previous contract had expired this summer, but Oviedo were confident of extending his stay after he helped return the team to Spain's top flight for the first time since 2001.

His connection to Oviedo runs deep. Cazorla spent seven years in the club's youth system but left in 2003 without making a first-team debut due to the club's severe financial difficulties at the time. In 2012, he was among former players who bought shares to help save the club from going out of business. He returned to Oviedo in 2023 after playing for Al Sadd in Qatar, making 61 appearances with 5 goals and 9 assists since his return.

Cazorla, a former Spain international who won two European Championships, endured a serious Achilles injury in 2016 during his time at Arsenal. This led to 11 operations, including one that caused gangrene and fears he might not walk properly again. He recovered remarkably to continue his career, having previously won two FA Cups with Arsenal and played for Villarreal before returning to Oviedo, marking his first La Liga season in five years.

Analysis highlights that Cazorla's decision is celebrated by Oviedo and La Liga fans alike. He is a hero in Oviedo, especially after guiding them back to La Liga. While age may limit his minutes, his impact in crucial moments, demonstrated during the playoffs, remains significant. His emotional reaction to promotion underscored his deep personal connection to the club.