Cádiz has announced the sad news of the retirement of José María Martín-Bejarano, known in football terms as José Mari. After a long fight against a knee injury, the midfielder from Rota has decided to hang up his boots. It was an open secret that the Roteño had a really difficult time returning to the playing fields and, after long months reflecting on his physical condition, he has made the decision to say goodbye to professional football.
At 36 years old, José Mari, who arrived at Cádiz in 2016, quickly became a reference both on and off the field. His dedication, leadership and commitment to the yellow colors marked an era in the club. Despite not being able to recover physically, his legacy as a player and as a person will be forever recorded in the history of Cádiz, with which he played a total of 166 games, in which he scored three goals.
The player from Rota has not only worn the shirt of the Tacita de Plata team, but has also played for clubs such as Real Jaén, Real Zaragoza, Colorado Rapids and Levante, among other teams.
Official statement from the club
«The Cádiz Football Club announces that our captain, José Mari Martín-Bejarano, has decided to end his career as a professional footballer after a brave fight against a knee injury from which, despite all his efforts, he has not been able to recover. .
José Mari, a symbol of commitment and dedication, arrived at our entity in 2016. Since then, he has defended our colors, becoming not only a reference on the playing field, but also an example of leadership, humility and closeness off the field. he. His career at the club will be recorded in our history as that of a player who embodied the values of Cádiz CF and who knew how to win the affection of the Cádiz fans.
José Mari was a key player in unforgettable moments such as promotion to the First Division in 2020. His role has been decisive during the second best sporting stage that the club is experiencing in its history.
Unfortunately, a serious knee injury slowed his path in recent years. Despite his efforts to return to the grass, it forces him to hang up his boots to take on new challenges.
From the Cádiz Football Club we want to express our most sincere gratitude to José Mari for everything he has given us. His legacy transcends sport: he will always be remembered as an exemplary caddy, a leader in the locker room and an idol for our fans. In the coming days there will be a press appearance that will serve as a tribute and farewell.
