Jude Bellingham shared a heartfelt tribute to Jesus Navas after the former Manchester City forward played the final match of his illustrious career on Sunday. The 39-year-old came on as a second-half substitute for Sevilla during their 4-2 loss to Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Navas, who spent four years at Manchester City between 2013 and 2017, will retire when his contract with Sevilla expires on December 31. Over a career spanning two decades, the Spaniard made more than 900 appearances for club and country, including over 700 for Sevilla across two spells.
After struggling with a persistent hip injury in recent years, Navas decided to hang up his boots. He made his final home start for Sevilla against Celta Vigo on December 14 and will officially bid farewell to fans during a special event at Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán on December 30.
Following his final game at Real Madrid, Bellingham showed his respect for Navas by embracing him on the pitch and later sharing a tribute on Instagram. The England midfielder wrote: “Congratulations on a fantastic career, and all the best for the future! @jnavas16.”
Navas joined Manchester City from Sevilla for £14.9 million in June 2013 and played a pivotal role in Manuel Pellegrini’s Premier League-winning side that season. He made 30 league appearances as City claimed their second Premier League title, overturning a nine-point deficit to surpass Liverpool.
Under Pep Guardiola, Navas transitioned from a right midfielder to a full-back before leaving City in 2017 after 183 appearances. He returned to Sevilla later that year, where he spent the remainder of his career, solidifying his legendary status and adding nine major trophies to his collection.
Reflecting on his final match, Navas shared an emotional message: “In the last two minutes, I was already very emotional. I’m at peace knowing I gave it my all and brought happiness to so many people. Thank you to Real Madrid, the stadium, and their fans for the incredible affection—it’s been overwhelming.”
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