Santi Cazorla's Selfless Return to Real Oviedo
Santi Cazorla, a revered figure in football, has made a poignant return to his roots at Real Oviedo, where his illustrious career began twenty years ago.
A Remarkable Gesture
In a display of unparalleled generosity, Cazorla has chosen to relinquish almost all of his image rights, allocating a substantial 10% towards supporting the club's academy, underscoring his dedication to nurturing young talent.
Humble Earnings
Despite his status in the football world, the 38-year-old has opted to receive only the minimum wage during his tenure at Oviedo. In fact, Cazorla expressed a desire to play for free, a notion dismissed due to regulatory constraints imposed by La Liga.
"I would play for free but you’re not allowed. They made a good offer. My wife said: 'No, no, you’re not going to Oviedo to earn, you’re going home to enjoy it, to help, to give.'"
Homecoming with a Purpose
Cazorla's return isn't driven by financial gain. His primary motivation is to relish in the joy of playing for his hometown club and to contribute meaningfully. His wife, understanding his intentions, encouraged him to prioritize enjoyment and assistance over financial remuneration.
"I called my agent: 'I don’t want any money.' I told the president: minimum salary, 10% of shirt sales to the academy. It was done that night."
A Gesture of Goodwill
Upon his return, Cazorla swiftly arranged with his agent and the club president to ensure that his earnings reflected his ethos. He insisted on receiving only the minimum salary while directing a portion of shirt sales towards the academy, a testament to his commitment to the club's future.
Embracing Responsibility
For Cazorla, this homecoming isn't about reliving past glories or basking in adulation. It's about embracing the responsibility bestowed upon him to lead by example and to demonstrate his passion for the game.
"People called it a step back, nothing to gain, but it’s the complete opposite. The responsibility is being up to that. I don’t want to be the guy who came to sell shirts or because he was a symbol of the academy; I want to be a footballer."
Beyond Recognition
While some may perceive his return as a regression, Cazorla sees it as a profound opportunity to make a lasting impact. His commitment transcends mere recognition; he aspires to be valued for his contributions as a footballer, not just as a symbol or a merchandise seller.
Santi Cazorla's journey back to Real Oviedo symbolizes not just a return to his roots but also a reaffirmation of his values, demonstrating that true fulfillment in football comes from purposeful action and a genuine love for the game.
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