On December 26, 2024, celebrated Canarian footballers Ayoze Pérez and Pedri were honored as illustrious sons of Tenerife, marking a momentous occasion for both players and their home island. The recognition, bestowed by the Island Council, took place during a heartfelt ceremony at the Cabildo of Tenerife, where both athletes reflected on their roots and aspirations to return to their homeland.
At the ceremony, Pedri, now 22 and currently playing for FC Barcelona, expressed deep gratitude for the honor. "To be recognized in your homeland, by your people, is something unique," he stated. He recalled the significance of this recognition, noting, "I never would have imagined this at just 22 years old. It’s something special, just like playing at Heliodoro with the National Team. This recognition is a great honor and significant acknowledgment." Pedri, who has achieved great success both domestically and internationally, reiterated the importance of remembering his origins, stating, "With each success with Barcelona and the national team, I always think of my islands, and I affirm this will always be the case."
Ayoze Pérez, now with Villareal FC, shared equally emotional sentiments during the ceremony. He admitted, "I lack words to describe the emotion I feel for the title awarded to me," as he reflected on his childhood dreams of professional football. "Through hard work and sacrifice, I was able to achieve it," he explained, emphasizing the unexpected honor of being named illustrious son of Tenerife. "This heartfelt recognition transcends sports and speaks to the essence of where I come from," he continued. Pérez highlighted the emotional connection he feels upon returning to Tenerife, noting, "Seeing Teide when I arrive by plane, enjoying the food and the sea, are feelings I only experience when I come back home."
During the ceremony, President of the Cabildo Rosa Dávila articulated the broader significance of the recognition, applauding both athletes not only for their talent but for embodying the values of their island. She emphasized, "They become illustrious sons and we pay tribute to them as ambassadors of our land. They serve as inspirations for new generations." Dávila also commended their efforts to carry Tenerife's name to prominent places on the international stage, illustrating the dreams achievable through hard work and passion.
The second significant event on the same day was the introduction of Álvaro Cervera as the new head coach of CD Tenerife. Cervera returns to the club after a decade, bringing back memories of his previous successful tenure. He managed the islanders for three seasons, helping them regain their place in professional football. His appointment follows the departure of Pepe Mel, and Cervera expressed determination as he acknowledges the challenges ahead.
At his introductory press conference, Cervera remarked, "This club has developed significantly since I left. There’s no middle ground. This is a 50-50 challenge. We need to put everything we have to succeed." He conveyed confidence as he discussed the advanced training facilities now available, stating, "There are few like this; you notice it as soon as you arrive."
Reflecting on previous fan reactions, Cervera expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome upon his return. Saying, "I feel very comfortable here," he recounted his transition from once being booed to now receiving applause on his visits. He emphasized his deep ties to the club, stating, "I belong here."
Cervera also articulated his vision for the current squad, stressing the importance of mental and physical recovery for players. "The first thing I will do is tell them it’s we who will turn this around. Those who will bring about the change are the ones here," he asserted. He acknowledged areas needing improvement but reaffirmed his faith in the current roster, noting, "I believe we have a good squad. There are definitely areas for improvement. Every squad can be enhanced."
Addressing the fans, Cervera reminded them of their role. "If we achieve anything, it’s because of their support; if they drift away, it’s impossible for us to succeed," he noted. He promised to strive for unity and shared enjoyment as the season progresses, stating, "We want to be defensively strong, capable of stepping onto the field believing we can win every match."
These back-to-back events represent the vibrant heartbeat of Tenerife’s football culture—a celebration of local talent recognized by their community, coupled with the dynamic shifts within CD Tenerife’s management aimed at steering the club to greater heights. Both moments serve as forceful reminders of the island's rich football heritage, nurturing aspirations and reinforcing connections to home.
