European champion Álvaro Negredo retires at the age of 39

Álvaro Negredo, one of the most recognizable Spanish strikers of his generation and a player who lifted the European Championship trophy with Spain in 2008, has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 39.

The announcement came via social media this Thursday, where Negredo shared an emotional farewell video accompanied by a short but heartfelt message: "Thank you for everything, football."

Negredo’s retirement marks the end of a career that spanned over two decades, taking him from the modest surroundings of the Rayo Vallecano academy all the way to some of Europe’s biggest clubs and competitions. Known for his physical presence, clinical finishing, and ability to score from almost any position inside the box, Negredo leaves behind a legacy that saw him represent clubs in Spain, England, Turkey, and even the Middle East.

Although his name will forever be associated with Spain’s golden generation, Negredo’s club career was just as eventful. After making his professional debut at Rayo Vallecano, he earned a move to Real Madrid B, where his prolific goal-scoring earned him attention across Spain. However, it was at Almería where Negredo truly made his name, emerging as one of La Liga’s most dangerous forwards. His impressive form earned him a high-profile transfer to Sevilla, where his reputation as a lethal striker only grew further.

During his time at Sevilla, Negredo became a fan favorite, scoring regularly in both La Liga and European competitions. His consistent performances attracted the attention of Manchester City, who brought him to the Premier League in 2013. At City, Negredo enjoyed immediate success, forming part of a star-studded squad that won the Premier League title in 2013/14, as well as the English League Cup. Though his time in Manchester lasted just one full season, Negredo left his mark, contributing 23 goals in all competitions and adding a physical edge to City’s attacking options.

After leaving City, Negredo’s career took him to Valencia and later to Besiktas in Turkey, before spells in the United Arab Emirates with Al-Nasr and back in Spain with Cádiz. Even in the twilight of his career, Negredo maintained his reputation as a dependable target man, capable of scoring important goals and providing invaluable experience to younger teammates. His final chapter came at Real Valladolid, but after the 2022/23 season, Negredo stepped away from competitive football, taking time to reflect before making his retirement official.

On the international stage, Negredo’s role in Spain’s legendary 2008 European Championship-winning squad cemented his place in the history books. While he was never the main star in a generation that featured the likes of David Villa, Fernando Torres, and later Diego Costa, Negredo’s physicality and poacher’s instinct offered Spain a different type of striker one that proved useful in certain tactical situations.

Beyond his European Championship triumph, Negredo’s personal trophy collection includes some of the most prestigious domestic honors. In addition to his Premier League and League Cup medals from his time at Manchester City, he also lifted the Copa del Rey with Sevilla, and later added a UAE League Cup title during his stint at Al-Nasr.

In his farewell video, Negredo reflected not only on his trophies and goals but on the friendships, lessons, and memories he collected throughout his journey. For many fans, especially those at Sevilla, Negredo’s name will forever evoke memories of towering headers, powerful finishes, and tireless work ethic qualities that made him a beloved figure wherever he played.

As he steps away from the game, Negredo leaves behind a career that serves as a reminder of the value of perseverance and adaptation. He was never the flashiest striker, nor the most hyped prospect, but his dedication to his craft ensured a long and successful career at the highest levels of the sport.

What comes next for Negredo remains to be seen, but with his wealth of experience across multiple leagues and cultures, coaching or mentoring the next generation could be a natural next step. For now, though, Álvaro Negredo’s boots are officially hung up, and Spanish football says goodbye to one of its most underrated but deeply respected forwards.

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