Aratz Kortazar, a futsal player from Eskoriatza, has ended his 20-year career with his final match played last weekend. He played his last game at the Manuel Muñoz sports center, bidding farewell to the sport after defending the Eskoriatza jersey for two decades. Kortazar admitted the match was "emotional," despite arriving with an injury and not being able to perform as he had hoped.

At 38 years old, he has made the decision, prompted by his body and mind, but also for his family. "I have three children and a wife, and I need to have time to dedicate to them," he stated. Although his wife did not directly tell him to retire, Kortazar was clear that it was time to close this chapter, "to open the door to new opportunities."

The player had a clear decision from the outset and had no doubts, unless something extraordinary happened, such as the team achieving promotion. "If we had achieved it, I don't know what I would have done; it would have required more time and the trips would have been longer," he admitted jokingly.

He started playing for Eskoriatza at 18 and retires at 38, "going from being a child to leaving with three children and a wife." He highlighted the most memorable moments of his career: his debut with the senior team at 18, qualifying for the play-offs a few years ago after defeating Mondra, and finally, last weekend's final match, "a game that closes the circle."

Kortazar has witnessed the evolution of futsal and noted that coaches and opponents are much better prepared now. He also indicated that there have been changes within the club, "many coaches have passed through the club, and things have changed."

Initially, he will take a break from futsal, despite receiving offers to become a coach. "My decision is to leave futsal completely, and that's what I will do," he stated clearly.

Finally, he thanked his teammates, coaches, and his entire family, especially his wife, Nerea, "without whom all this would not have been possible."