Arteta’s tribute to Cazorla: the gift of a 17-year Arsenal bond

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has publicly honoured former teammate Santi Cazorla after the 41-year-old midfielder announced his retirement from professional football. The tribute came via Real Oviedo, where Cazorla played a pivotal role in securing promotion back to La Liga in 2025.

Arteta, who played alongside Cazorla at Arsenal between 2012 and 2016, described the moment as the end of a cycle. “It’s been an honour, it’s been a gift to get to know you as a person, to have been your teammate,” Arteta said. “To be there with you in everything that has happened in your career and what you have become, and particularly the legacy that you are going to leave in football and in all of the people that have been there next to you.”

The Arsenal manager also extended his gratitude to Cazorla’s family, singling out his wife Ursula and their children. “I can’t forget your family, I can’t forget your wife Ursula and your children, and all the people you have around you,” Arteta added.

Cazorla had hinted earlier this year that he was considering retirement, though he did not confirm it at the time. Oviedo’s relegation battle in La Liga meant the announcement would have been untimely, but their eventual drop made this summer the right moment for the midfielder to step away.

At 41, Cazorla leaves Oviedo having played a key role in their promotion back to the top flight. His leadership and experience were central to the club’s rise, marking a fitting end to his playing days.

Arsenal supporters will recall Cazorla most fondly for his time in north London, where he helped the club win two FA Cup trophies. His free-kick in the 2014 final set Arsenal on the path to victory against Hull City.

Cazorla’s honours also include trophies with Villarreal, Al Sadd, and Spain, where he was part of the squads that won the European Championship in 2008 and 2012. His career spanned multiple continents, reflecting both his talent and adaptability.

The midfielder’s final professional chapter came in 2025, when he contributed to Oviedo’s Segunda Division play-off success, completing a full-circle return to the top tier.