In the world of football, some journeys are more remarkable than others. The story of Ayoze Pérez, a striker born and raised on the Canary Island of Tenerife, is one such tale of determination, perseverance, and ultimate triumph. From his humble beginnings in Spain’s second division to becoming a European champion with the national team, Pérez’s path to glory is nothing short of inspirational.
The Early Years: Tenerife’s Rising Star
Pérez’s footballing journey began at CD Tenerife, where he helped the club gain promotion to the second division. His talent and goal-scoring prowess didn’t go unnoticed, and soon, clubs from across Europe began to take interest in the young Canarian. However, it was England’s Newcastle United that ultimately secured his signature in 2014, marking the start of a new chapter in Pérez’s career.
Thriving in the Premier League
Adapting to life in the Premier League is no easy feat, but Pérez embraced the challenge head-on. Over the course of five seasons with Newcastle and four with Leicester City, he amassed over 300 appearances and scored 63 goals. His performances caught the eye of many, but international recognition remained elusive.
“Everything happens for a reason; I’m a big believer in that,” Pérez reflects. “It’s a process that brings you here. It all comes together, makes you who you are.”
The Call-Up: A Dream Realized
In 2024, after two impressive seasons back in Spain with Real Betis, Pérez’s long-awaited opportunity arrived. He was named in Spain’s preliminary squad for Euro 2024, a moment he describes as “the hostia” – the absolute business. Despite being a newcomer to the national setup, Pérez’s talent and work ethic quickly earned him a place in the final tournament squad.
“When you’re included in the final squad, the happiness is on the inside,” Pérez shares. “Ten days earlier I’d never been called up in my life; now I was going to the Euros.”
Euro 2024: A Canarian Conquers Europe
Pérez’s Euro 2024 journey may have been brief in terms of minutes played, but its significance cannot be overstated. As part of the victorious Spanish side, he became the first Canarian to win a major international tournament with Spain. The achievement was made all the more special by the fact that, just a month earlier, he had never even been called up to the national team.
Homecoming: Tenerife’s Hero Returns
Now, as Spain prepares to face Switzerland in Tenerife, Pérez is set to make an emotional return to the Heliodoro Rodríguez López Stadium – the place where his remarkable journey began. The significance of the occasion is not lost on him, as he looks forward to playing in front of the fans who supported him from the very start.
“To go back after so many years and with the national team is special,” Pérez says. “I never imagined playing for Spain in Tenerife.”
As Ayoze Pérez steps onto the pitch in Tenerife, wearing the colors of Spain, his journey will have come full circle. From a young boy with big dreams to a European champion, his story serves as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible. And who knows, perhaps he’ll even celebrate with a nice cup of tea – a nod to the country that helped shape him into the player he is today.
