Jesús Navas

Sevilla's record appearance holder and Spanish legend.

Last updated 30 September 2026

Jesús Navas González (born 21 November 1985) is a Spanish former professional footballer who played as a right-back or right winger. He spent the vast majority of his career with Sevilla, winning eight major titles including four UEFA Cups/Europa Leagues and two Copas del Rey.

In 2013 he signed for Manchester City, where he won the 2013–14 Premier League. He re-joined Sevilla in 2017, going on to hold the club's record for most competitive appearances at 705. A Spain international from 2009 to 2024, Navas helped his country to win the 2010 World Cup, two European Championships and the 2022–23 Nations League, earning 56 caps and scoring five goals.

Quick Facts

Full name: Jesús Navas González
Born: 21 November 1985
Birthplace: Los Palacios y Villafranca, Spain
Height: 1.70 m / 5 ft 7 in
Position: Right-back, right winger
Total caps: 672

Lore & Background

Born in Los Palacios y Villafranca, Province of Seville, Navas joined Sevilla's youth system at age 15. He made his first-team debut on 23 November 2003. He spent most of his career at Sevilla, winning multiple UEFA Cups and Copas del Rey.

He moved to Manchester City in 2013, winning the Premier League in 2013–14, and returned to Sevilla in 2017. He became the club's all-time appearance leader with 705 matches. He also played for Spain, winning the 2010 World Cup, two European Championships, and the 2022–23 Nations League.

Reader's Guide

Navas is best known for his pace, crossing, and versatility as both a winger and right-back. His career is defined by loyalty to Sevilla, where he holds the appearance record, and his contributions to Spain's golden era. Key moments include his debut in 2003, his move to Manchester City in 2013, his return to Sevilla in 2017, and his final match in December 2024.

Did You Know?

Navas made his Sevilla debut at age 17, playing 12 minutes in a 1–0 loss at Espanyol on 23 November 2003.
He scored the second goal in the 2010 Copa del Rey final, a 2–0 win over Atlético Madrid.
Navas was reconverted to right-back by Pep Guardiola late in the 2016–17 season at Manchester City.
He became the oldest player to score for Sevilla in La Liga at 38 years and 298 days, breaking Sergio Ramos's record.
Navas played his final match at the Sánchez Pizjuán on 14 December 2024, a 1–0 win over Celta de Vigo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Jesús Navas?

Born in 1985, he is a Spanish football icon who dedicated the vast majority of his career to Sevilla FC. He served as the long-serving team captain and remains a celebrated figure for his loyalty and performance.

How many appearances does he hold for Sevilla?

Navas surpassed Pablo Blanco's previous record to become the club's all-time leading appearance holder with 705 competitive games. This milestone cements his status as the most consistent player in the team's history.

What major trophies did he win with Sevilla?

During his tenure, he secured eight major titles, including four UEFA Cups or Europa Leagues and two Copas del Rey. He notably holds the world record for the most European competition titles won by a single player.

Did he play for other clubs before returning to Sevilla?

Yes, he moved to Manchester City where he helped them win the 2013–14 Premier League title. He later rejoined his boyhood club in 2017 to finish his career as a legend.