Keylor Navas, the renowned Costa Rican goalkeeper, has had a remarkable career that began with Deportivo Saprissa. He started playing in minor leagues at the age of 14 and made his professional debut in 2005. Since then, he has accumulated numerous titles in both Costa Rica and Spain, eventually rising to the heights of global football with Real Madrid.
Career Highlights
Navas was instrumental in Real Madrid’s historic achievements, including a three-peat of the UEFA Champions League titles. This feat was unprecedented since the UEFA altered the competition format in 1992. In addition to the Champions League, he won the Club World Cup four times.
Choosing Between Teams
Recently, Navas faced a provocative question from journalist David Faitelson during an interview on TUDN. Faitelson asked him to choose between his early club, Saprissa, and the prestigious Real Madrid. Navas’s response surprised many in Costa Rica.
- Navas remarked on his roots in Pérez Zeledón.
- He indicated that his time at Saprissa was fulfilling, allowing him to realize his dream of being a professional player.
- Conversely, his stint with Real Madrid was the dream of any footballer, fulfilling his aspirations of winning significant titles.
Statistical Overview
Keylor Navas’s performance statistics underline his successful tenure at both clubs:
| Club | Matches Played | Titles Won |
|---|---|---|
| Deportivo Saprissa | 85 | 6 (Liga Promérica) |
| Real Madrid | 162 | 11 (Champions League, LaLiga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa, Club World Cup) |
Navas’s decision not to favor either club reflects his deep emotional connection to both teams. This sentiment resonates with many fans in Costa Rica and showcases his respect for his football journey.
