30 Facts About Jesus Navas

Early Life and Career

Jesús Navas González, born on November 21, 1985, in Los Palacios y Villafranca, Province of Seville, has had a remarkable journey in football. His early years set the stage for a career filled with dedication and success.

1. Navas joined Sevilla FC's youth system at the age of 15, showcasing his talent early on.
2. He made his first-team and La Liga debut on November 23, 2003, in a 1–0 loss against RCD Espanyol, playing 12 minutes.
3. By the 2004–05 season, Navas was permanently promoted to the main squad, scoring two goals from 22 games and extending his contract until 2010.

Rise to Prominence

Navas quickly became a key player for Sevilla, contributing to significant victories and earning recognition for his performances.

4. In the 2005–06 season, Navas was crucial in Sevilla's UEFA Cup victory, appearing in all 12 matches, including the final against Middlesbrough, where Sevilla won 4–0.
5. In August 2006, a deal was arranged for Navas to transfer to Chelsea, but he declined the move citing possible homesickness.
6. Navas consistently impressed in the league, appearing in Don Balón magazine's Top 50 each year from 2006 to 2008, leading the team in assists and adding nine league goals over the next three years.
7. He helped Sevilla to the 2008 edition of the Copa del Rey and to third place in the following season's championship.

Challenges and Comebacks

Even the best players face challenges. Navas had his share of injuries but always made strong comebacks.

8. The 2010–11 season was greatly undermined by injury, as Navas appeared in less than half of Sevilla's matches. Despite this, he scored a rare header in a 1–1 home draw against Barcelona on March 13, 2011.
9. Navas returned to the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium on November 3, 2015, playing the full 90 minutes in a 3–1 win against Inter Milan in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, assisting Wilfried Bony for the last goal.
10. Late in the 2016–17 campaign, new manager Pep Guardiola reconverted Navas into a right-back. From that position, he contributed two decisive passes in a 3–1 home defeat of Hull City on April 8, 2017.

Manchester City Stint

Navas took his talents to the Premier League, where he continued to shine.

11. Navas signed for Manchester City in 2013 and won the 2013–14 Premier League title. However, he re-joined Sevilla in 2017, going on to hold the club's record for most competitive appearances at 689.

International Career

Navas has also had a stellar international career, contributing to Spain's success on the global stage.

12. Navas is a Spain international from 2009 to 2024, helping his country win the 2010 World Cup, two European Championships, and the 2022–23 Nations League. He earned 56 caps and scored five goals.
13. Navas played a crucial role in Spain's 2010 World Cup victory, scoring his first goal as an international on June 3, 2010, in a warm-up friendly with South Korea, netting the game's only goal four minutes from time.
14. Navas was part of the Spain team that won two European Championships, showcasing his versatility and skill on the field.
15. In 2023, Navas became the first player in history to win a World Cup, a European Championship, and a Nations League title. He played the full 90 minutes of Spain's semi-final victory over Italy and started in the final against Croatia, helping his team secure a shootout win.

Leadership and Legacy

Navas' leadership qualities have been evident throughout his career, both at the club and international levels.

16. Navas has captained Sevilla FC for several seasons, leading the team with dedication and passion. His leadership has been instrumental in many of the club's successes.
17. Navas holds multiple records at Sevilla FC, including the most competitive appearances (689) and the most titles won (eight major titles including four UEFA Cups/Europa Leagues and two Copas del Rey).
18. On January 3, 2020, Navas became the first player to reach 500 appearances for Sevilla FC when he started in a 1–1 draw against Athletic Bilbao.
19. Navas has been pivotal in Sevilla's Europa League success, winning three titles in the competition. His most recent victory came on August 21, 2021, when he captained the side to a 3–2 victory over Inter Milan in the final.
20. In 2023, Navas was named Player of the Season by UEFA's technical observer panel for his outstanding performance in the Europa League final against Roma. His teasing cross in the 55th minute resulted in Gianluca Mancini's own goal, tying the match.

Farewell and Future

As Navas prepares to say goodbye to Sevilla FC, his legacy continues to grow.

21. After announcing his departure from Sevilla FC on June 16, 2024, Navas revealed that the club did not attempt to reach out to him regarding a potential contract renewal. However, following this revelation, chairman José María del Nido offered him a lifetime extension, which he accepted.
22. Navas has played in numerous Seville derbies, known as ELGRAN DERBI, against Real Betis. He will play his 697th game in the Sevilla FC jersey in his final derby, leaving him just three more appearances away from reaching the milestone of 700 games across all competitions.
23. If Navas plays on Sunday, he will become the player with the most appearances in this derby, surpassing the 27 of former Real Betis player Joaquín. He has participated in 11 wins, 10 draws, and six defeats, while providing three assists in these matches.
24. The Seville derby is one of the most intense and passionate in Spanish football, boasting 115 years of history. Navas' farewell match will be extra special, as he writes one last chapter in the history books of this iconic rivalry.
25. Throughout his career, Navas has achieved numerous milestones. He is the only player in history to win the European Championship, the World Cup, and the UEFA Nations League. These achievements place him in a unique position in international soccer.
26. At the age of 38, Navas is the longest-serving Spanish international. His dedication and passion for the sport have made him an idol for fans and a legend in the club's history.
27. Blessed with blistering pace, Navas excelled at most sports in school. He was finally signed by his local football team, Los Palacios, aged 13. His resilient rise to the top is a testament to his hard work and determination.
28. Navas has been a central figure at Sevilla FC for many years. His dedication and passion for the club have made him an idol for the fans, while he has shared the dressing room with all kinds of LALIGA legends over the years.
29. Beyond his impressive football career, Navas is known for his humility and dedication. He has left an indelible mark on Sevilla FC's history and will always be remembered as one of the greatest players to have ever worn the club's jersey.
30. As Navas prepares to say goodbye to his beloved Sevilla FC at the end of 2024, fans from all over the world will be paying tribute to a player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. His final farewell match against Real Betis will be an emotional and memorable occasion for everyone involved.

The Legacy of Jesús Navas

Jesús Navas has carved out an extraordinary career, becoming a true icon in Spanish football. From his early days at Sevilla FC to his pivotal role in Spain's World Cup and European Championship victories, Navas has consistently demonstrated skill, dedication, and leadership. His record-breaking appearances and numerous titles with Sevilla highlight his impact on the club.

Navas' versatility, transitioning from winger to right-back, showcases his adaptability and commitment to the game. His achievements, including being the only player to win a World Cup, European Championship, and Nations League, set him apart in football history. As he prepares to bid farewell to Sevilla, his legacy will inspire future generations. Navas' journey is a testament to hard work, passion, and unwavering loyalty, making him a legend in the sport.