Ayoze Pérez’s football journey is a tale of perseverance, resilience, and dreams realized. After nearly a decade playing in England, he has returned to Spain, where he has achieved the long-awaited goal of representing his country on the international stage. His story is one of dedication and belief, culminating in a triumphant chapter with the Spanish national team.
Pérez’s journey began in 2014 when he left his boyhood club, CD Tenerife, to join Newcastle United. It was an intimidating step for the young Canarian, who had never traveled outside Spain. Moving to England at 20 was a leap into the unknown, but one he embraced with determination. Over nine seasons in England, Pérez grew as both a player and a person. At Newcastle and later Leicester City, he experienced the full spectrum of football, from the lows of relegation battles to the highs of winning the FA Cup and achieving promotion from the Championship. Across more than 300 games, he scored 63 goals, establishing himself as a reliable and creative forward.
Despite his accomplishments in England, an international call-up eluded him. The depth of talent in the Spanish national team and his distance from the Spanish football scene made selection seem unlikely. However, returning to Spain in 2022 with Real Betis gave Pérez a chance to rediscover his best form. His performances, particularly in the second half of the 2023-24 season, were exceptional, with a streak of goals that made him one of La Liga’s standout players. It was during this time that he felt a deep sense of possibility, a belief that his opportunity with the national team might finally come.
That belief became a reality when he received a surprise call-up to the Spanish squad for Euro 2024. At 30 years old, Pérez made his international debut, marking the occasion with a goal. The tournament proved to be a historic one for Spain, as they secured the European Championship, with Pérez playing a part in their success. For a player who had waited so long for his chance, it was a moment of immense pride and validation.
Pérez’s return to his homeland has been about more than just football. Now playing for Villarreal, he has become a key figure in their attacking setup, scoring crucial goals and showcasing his ability to deliver in decisive moments. His performances have solidified his place in the national team, where his unique experience from his time in England adds a valuable perspective.
One of the most emotional moments of his career came when the Spanish national team played in Tenerife, his hometown, for the first time in decades. Returning to the Heliodoro Rodríguez López stadium, where his professional journey began, was deeply symbolic. Although an injury prevented him from fully participating, the occasion was a powerful reminder of how far he has come. Representing Spain in front of his home crowd was a dream fulfilled, a moment steeped in pride and gratitude.
Reflecting on his career, Pérez acknowledges the ups and downs that have shaped him. His time in England taught him resilience and adaptability, while his return to Spain has allowed him to reach new heights. His journey is a testament to persistence and the belief that opportunities come to those who are ready to seize them. For Pérez, the road has been long but ultimately rewarding, making his achievements all the more meaningful.
